HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION

Cutlery Thefts

Nigel Evans: To ask the hon. Member for North Devon, representing the House of Commons Commission how much cutlery went missing from the House of Commons Refreshment Department in 2005.

Nick Harvey: No separate record is kept of cutlery missing from the restaurants and bars of the House of Commons. In 2005, the Refreshment Department spent £10,630 to replace cutlery lost or damaged through general wear and tear, or to meet changes in the demand for catering services.

Departmental Staff

Bob Spink: To ask the hon. Member for North Devon, representing the House of Commons Commission how many disciplinary actions against employees of the House of Commons (a) were commenced and (b) resulted in a sanction being applied in each of the last five years.

Nick Harvey: The information requested is as follows:
	
		
			  Disciplinary actions commenced Number of actions resulting in sanction 
		
		
			 2002 9 8 
			 2003 15 15 
			 2004 6 6 
			 2005 15 15 
		
	
	Note:
	Figures for earlier years were not centrally collated.

Public Gallery (Security Screen)

Fraser Kemp: To ask the hon. Member for North Devon, representing the House of Commons Commission what assessment the Commission has made of the impact of the new security screen on visitor numbers to the Public Gallery in the Chamber.

Nick Harvey: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 9 January 2006, Official Report, columns l-2W.

INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Birth Control

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development how much EU aid was given to (a) the United Nations Population Fund, (b) the International Planned Parenthood Federation and (c) Marie Stopes International in each year since 1999.

Gareth Thomas: EU aid, provided by the European Commission, to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the International Planned Parenthood Foundation (IPPF) and Marie Stopes International (MSI) since 1999 is as follows:
	
		(a) The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
		
			  Thousand ($) 
		
		
			 1999 9,314 
			 2000 7,090 
			 2001 4,924 
			 2002 4,917 
			 2003 16,962 
			 2004 8,124 
			 2005 13,915 
		
	
	
		(b) The International Planned Parenthood Foundation (IPPF)
		
			  Thousand (£) 
		
		
			 1999 950 
			 2000 453 
			 2001 241 
			 2002 222 
			 2003 2,162 
			 2004 1,397 
			 2005 (1)— 
		
	
	(1) Figure not yet available
	
		(c) Marie Stopes International (MSI)
		
			  Thousand (£) 
		
		
			 1999 1,132 
			 2000 1,570 
			 2001 1,095 
			 2002 2,027 
			 2003 1,233 
			 2004 741 
			 2005 (2)— 
		
	
	(2) Figure not yet available

Cape Verde Islands

Hugh Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development 
	(1)  what representations he has received from the government of the Cape Verde islands about illegal drugs;
	(2)  what measures the UK Government are taking to combat drug running in the Cape Verde islands.

Kim Howells: I have been asked to reply.
	UK law enforcement agencies have reported a recent growth in the trafficking of illicit drugs through West Africa, including Cape Verde. We welcome the Cape Verdian Government's strong commitment to enforcing the rule of law and taking action against international organised crime. As a result of a short-term assessment of the increased use of Cape Verde as a drugs transit route, we are engaged with the Cape Verdian Government and other international partners in the region to identify both the nature of this development and how shared resources might be deployed to the region to best effect.
	Our Ambassador to Senegal, who has responsibility for the Islands of Cape Verde, met with Cape Verdian Ministers and officials in December 2005 to discuss a range of issues affecting the islands. In addition, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Department for International Development (Hilary Benn) is writing to the Cape Verdian Minister of Foreign Affairs about our work, with EU partners, to help the Cape Verde authorities tackle the growing problem of illicit drug trafficking through the region.

Climate Change

Colin Challen: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what financial contribution the UK has made to the (a) UN framework convention on climate change least developed countries fund, (b) special climate change fund and (c) adaptation fund under the Kyoto protocol.

Gareth Thomas: The UN framework convention on climate change least developed countries fund will support national adaptation programmes in the poorest developing countries. Operational guidance for the fund was recently adopted by parties at the climate change conference in Montreal, December 2005. When the programming document for the fund is agreed by the Council of the Global Environment Facility, who will oversee the operation of the fund, the UK will consider providing finance. We recognise the fund's importance in helping Governments of the poorest developing countries manage the effects of climate change.
	As of April 2005, nine donors, including the UK, pledged approximately £19 million to the special climate change fund. The UK contribution amounts to over half of this;—£10 million over three years: 2005–06, 2006–07 and 2007–08. This will be available to support any developing country in managing the effects of climate change.
	Parties to the UN convention on climate change deferred a decision on activating the adaptation fund until management arrangements have been agreed, which should take place this year. The principle revenue stream to the fund will come from a 2 per cent. levy on emissions trading under the clean development mechanism.

Democracy Projects

Denis MacShane: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development if he will list the projects being supported by his Department for the promotion of democracy in (a) China, (b) the Balkans region, (c) Kenya, (d) Uganda, (e) Eritrea, (f) the Russian Federation, (g) Pakistan and (h) Burma; what the nature of the support is in each case; and how much funding has been allocated to each project.

Gareth Thomas: In China, DFID supports the promotion of grassroots democracy across its projects, through promoting the participation of poor people in decision making. Such participation is institutionalised in some projects through the creation of community based organisations such as water user associations.
	In the Balkans, DFID currently has a £900,000 programme of support to 'Standards for Kosovo'. About £150,000 is earmarked for support to functioning democratic institutions.
	In Kenya, DFID has provided £5,140,000 over five years for the Political Empowerment Programme. The programme is meant to build demand to ensure a fair, inclusive, consultative and sustainable democratic process in the country. The support consists of: £900,000 to civic education, £150,000 to the Electoral Commission of Kenya, £250,000 to support a resource centre for Parliament, £300,000 for political parties to monitor the recent constitutional referendum, £450,000 spent on domestic observation of the 2002 elections and £500,000 reserved for the same in the 2007 elections. DFID has also provided £5,377,918 over six years to support participatory local governance and democratisation at the grassroots level.
	In Uganda, DFID has provided £600,000 to the donor funded Election Support Programme, which is designed to improve the prospects for free and fair elections. It includes support for the Uganda Electoral Commission, domestic election observers, increasing women's participation in the political process and strengthening independent media coverage of the elections. DFID has also committed £400,000 to the national civic education programme, which aims to empower Ugandans to participate effectively in promoting accountability and transparency in national and local politics. A further £50,000 has been contributed to a donor basket fund supporting the Parliament of Uganda with the aim of improving democratic governance.
	In Eritrea, DFID does not have any projects to support the promotion of democracy.
	In Pakistan, DFID has provided £525,000 to build the capacity of parliamentarians at the federal and provincial levels; £326,000 to strengthen the capacity of local political party branches and £208,531 for election monitoring to develop an understanding of the processes and outcomes of the 2005 local elections. DFID is also supporting the promotion of grassroots democracy across its projects by providing: £2.8 million for a Gender Equality Project through the British Council to strengthen the capacity of local organisations to achieve access for women to political and economic decision making, protection from violence, and equal treatment in law; £18 million through the Asian Development Bank to strengthen the ability of civil society to demand improved delivery of services and access to justice and approximately £5 million for a Citizen Empowerment Initiative to strengthen the capacity of civil society organisations to engage government on issues of social exclusion, human rights and poverty reduction.
	In Russia, DFID has promoted democracy by addressing issues of community participation, voice and accountability across the technical cooperation programmes. The ongoing projects include: a £3,800,000 Public Administration and Civil Service Reform Project to ensure greater transparency of the civil service, to promote freedom of information and to encourage civilian participation in the public administration reform process; £4,980,000 Support to Poverty Reduction in Leningrad Region (Oblast) Programme to strengthen the capacity of the region and municipal authorities to develop community-based alternatives to service delivery and alternative approaches to income earning for young people of mixed abilities.
	In Burma, DFID does not fund any projects solely focused on promoting democracy. DFID works with a range of partners including the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), the UN and international NGOs across health, education and livelihoods issues in a way that empowers civil society and communities. For example, DFID is providing £4 million to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) over four years to help improve livelihoods for poor rural people through participatory local-level decision making.

Departmental Expenditure

Michael Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what the annual expenditure on (a) fixtures and fittings, (b) general office expenses and (c) office equipment was of his (i) Department and (ii) each (A) non-departmental public body, (B) executive agency and (C) other public body for which his Department is responsible in (1) Scotland, (2) Wales, (3) each English region and (4) Northern Ireland in each of the last three financial years; and what the planned expenditure is for 2005–06 in each case.

Hilary Benn: DFID spent the amounts detailed in the UK as per the following table:
	
		£
		
			 Financial year Fixtures and fittings Office equipment General office expenses 
		
		
			 2002–03 23,798 44,216 2,370,312 
			 2003–04 30,744 109,568 2,784,152 
			 2004–05 64,123 92,832 3,033,851 
			 2005–06 (Forecast) 25,000 100,000 3,107,000 
		
	
	Information on these items of expenditure in overseas offices is not held centrally and cannot be obtained without incurring a disproportionate cost.
	DFID is responsible for CDC (formerly Commonwealth Development Corporation), a self-financing public corporation, based in London. The relevant figures for CDC are:
	
		£
		
			  Fixtures and fittings Office equipment General office expenses 
		
		
			 2003 219,400 5,400 301,900 
			 2004 123,100 2,400 164,300 
			 2005 (Forecast) 99,000 7,000 58,000 
			 2006 (Budget) 100,000 8,000 69,000

Departmental Vehicles

Theresa Villiers: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development how many cars are (a) owned and (b) leased by his Department; what models the cars are; what type of petrol each model requires; and what the fuel efficiency is of each model.

Gareth Thomas: DFID leases two ministerial cars from the Government Car Service. For vehicles provided to Government Departments by the Government Car and Despatch Agency (GCDA), my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport, has asked the chief executive of the GCDA to write to the hon. Member with the information requested.
	The permanent secretary's car is leased, details as follows:
	Model: Volvo S80
	Fuel: LPG (liquified petroleum gas)
	Fuel efficiency: Approx. 18 mpg on average.
	Information on vehicles held in overseas offices is not held centrally and cannot be obtained without incurring a disproportionate cost.

Zimbabwe

Sally Keeble: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development 
	(1)  what discussions his Department has had with UN Habitat about temporary housing schemes for people whose homes were destroyed in land clearance in Zimbabwe; and if he will make a statement;
	(2)  what progress is being made in providing emergency shelter for people whose homes were lost in land clearance in Zimbabwe.

Gareth Thomas: DFID is in constant dialogue with the United Nations Country Team on the response to the land clearance (Operation Murambatsvina). DFID stands ready to support the efforts of the United Nations Human Settlement Programme (UN Habitat) to provide shelter for those affected by land clearance (Operation Murambatsvina) in Zimbabwe, should that organisation be able to implement transparent, equitable and cost-effective ways of doing so.
	The Government of Zimbabwe has declared that the transitional shelter prototype designed by UN Habitat is sub-standard and has ordered that these shelters be demolished. UN Habitat is now involved in discussions with the Government of Zimbabwe over an acceptable form of shelter.
	Meanwhile, there are serious concerns over the allocation of shelter. It is feared that the Government of Zimbabwe will prioritise civil servants, government supporters or those who can afford to pay for shelter over those who are in greatest need.
	DFID has provided more than £1 million to the humanitarian response to Operation Murambatsvina. Further funds are being channelled through non-governmental organisations that are seeking creative ways to respond to the resulting problems of homelessness and overcrowding.

CULTURE MEDIA AND SPORT

Audible Fire Alarms

Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what proportion of the premises occupied by her Department is fitted with audible fire alarms.

David Lammy: All buildings occupied by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport are fitted with audible fire alarms.

Departmental Estate (Castle Point)

Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what (a) land and (b) property is owned by her Department in Castle Point.

David Lammy: The Department for Culture, Media and Sport does not own (a) land or (b) property in Castle Point.

Departmental IT Equipment

Theresa Villiers: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how many (a) laptops and (b) mobile phones her Department bought in each year since 1997; and what the cost of each category of equipment was in each year.

David Lammy: My Department does not record this information on a year-by-year basis.
	(a) Since 1999, my Department has purchased 178 laptops.
	(b) Since 1999, my Department has purchased 113 mobile phones.
	The cost of each category in each year could be collated only at disproportionate cost.

Departmental IT Equipment

Theresa Villiers: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how much her Department has spent on IT systems in each year since 1997; what the purpose of each system is; what the out-turn against planned expenditure of each system was; and what the (a) planned and (b) actual date of completion was of each system.

David Lammy: My Department does not hold the information in the format requested. The question could be answered only at disproportionate costs.

Departmental Targets

Anne Main: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what (a) targets, (b) advice and (c) guidance her Department has given to Executive agencies that fall under the remit of her Department on the reorganisation of their administrative functions on a regional basis; and if she will make a statement.

David Lammy: None, since the eight parks managed by the Department's only agency, the Royal Parks, are all in London.

Digital Television (Wales)

David Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport 
	(1)  what percentage of television viewers in (a) Monmouthshire and (b) Wales have access to freeview signals; and what steps her Department is taking to ensure that freeview access will be available in each area immediately following analogue switch-off;
	(2)  what steps are being taken to widen access to freeview in (a) Monmouth and (b) Monmouthshire.

James Purnell: Digital Switchover will enable digital terrestrial coverage to match the current 98.5 per cent. analogue level. Switchover for the HTV Wales region will happen in the second half of 2009.
	Freeview signals are currently available to an estimated 35.7 per cent. of households in the Monmouth constituency. No equivalent figures are available for counties, although for Wales as a whole, 57 per cent. of households are predicted to be in areas served by the full range of digital terrestrial services.
	The Government have confirmed the regional timetable for the switchover to digital television and announced details of a support scheme to help the most vulnerable households to make the switch.
	Digital UK, an independent, not-for-profit company set up by the broadcasters, commercial multiplex operators and involving the supply chain digital switchover will co-ordinate the implementation of digital switchover and ensure that consumers have timely and accurate information about the switch.

Gambling

Adam Holloway: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what steps her Department is taking to ensure that problem gambling is addressed by proposed gambling reforms.

Richard Caborn: The Gambling Act 2005 includes important new safeguards to protect children and vulnerable adults from the harmful effects of gambling.
	We plan to bring the Act fully into force with effect from September 2007.

Olympic Games

Hugh Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport pursuant to the answer of 12 January 2006, Official Report, columns 783–84W, on the 2012 Olympics, for what reason UK Sport has not set an aspirational target for Olympic medals at the 2012 Olympic Games.

Richard Caborn: It would not be appropriate for UK Sport, the Government's lead agency on elite sport, to set a target for Olympic medals at the 2012 Olympic Games in advance of agreeing a funding package for elite sport.
	The Government are not in a position at this stage to indicate when a decision will be taken on a funding package for elite sport. Funding is currently in place for the Beijing Olympic and Paralympic cycle, which concludes in 2009.

CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS

Audible Fire Alarms

Bob Spink: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs what proportion of the premises occupied by her Department is fitted with audible fire alarms.

Harriet Harman: The proportion of premises that have an audible fire alarm fitted in my Department is 99.09 percent. This answer is based upon the number of buildings in the Department of Constitutional Affairs Headquarters estate and Her Majesty's Courts Service. It does not include related agencies and NDPBs, as to gather this information would incur a disproportionate cost.

Constitutional Reform Act

David Amess: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs when she expects each section of the Constitutional Reform Act 2005 to come into force; and if she will make a statement.

Harriet Harman: Some provisions of the Constitutional Reform Act have already been implemented. The majority of the remaining provisions—including those related to the rule of law, the role of the Lord Chancellor, the Judicial Appointments Commission and its oversight body, a judicial disciplinary system and general judiciary-related provisions—are expected to be brought into force on 3 April 2006.
	Part 3 of the Act, which relates to the establishment of a Supreme Court is expected to be implemented in 2008. Certain provisions in the Act relating to Northern Ireland will not be commenced until after the restoration of devolution to the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Departmental Jobs (Regional Distribution)

Michael Weir: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs how many and what percentage of jobs in (a) her Department, (b) each (i) non-departmental public body, (ii) executive agency and (iii) other public body for which her Department is responsible are located in (A) each of the English regions, (B) Wales and (C) Northern Ireland.

Harriet Harman: The figures are published in Civil Service Statistics. Departments should refer to Table D which covers permanent staff numbers (FTE basis) in each department and agency. This information is available at the following address on the Cabinet Office Statistics website:
	http://www.civilservice.gov.uk/management_of_the_ civil_service/statistics/civil_service_statistics/index.asp
	Information for non-departmental public bodies is not collected centrally on a regional basis. (Departments will have to supply their own figures based on the groupings in Table D of Civil Service Statistics bearing in mind the disproportionate cost threshold).

Departmental Objectives

David Amess: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs what discussions she has had with stakeholders about the progress of each target in her Department's Objective (a) I, (b) II and (c) IV.

Harriet Harman: I have held discussions with a number of key stakeholders including the judiciary, legal professions, court users, consumers and private sector organisations, about the progress of the PSA targets falling under the Strategic Objectives in SR 2004.

Departmental Staff (Chronic Back Pain)

Andrew Pelling: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs what initiatives are being taken in her Department to help civil servants with chronic back pain.

Harriet Harman: DCA offices and equipment are set out to meet the requirements of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and other general health and safety legislation such as Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations1999. Where an assessment of ergonomic risk is necessary, in such cases all assessments are conducted in accordance with the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 as amended by the Health and Safety (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2002.
	Health and Safety audits and Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessments are conducted on work stations as a matter of course, but should a member of staff feel that their 'work station' is not comfortable or their chair, desk or position of their computer terminal is causing discomfort to their back, they can request a DSE risk assessment. These assessments are conducted by trained assessors, who look to aid or prevent chronic back pain by ensuring that:
	the chair allows easy freedom of movement and a comfortable work position
	The chair has a definite lumbar curve, well padded seat. A seat which supports most of the thighs but turns downwards before it reaches the back of the knees
	If the individual has neck or shoulder tension, a long chair back is recommended—if the small of the back does not have sufficient support a lumbar roll will be obtained. Gliders or braked castors are needed on smooth floors.
	The armrests are height adjustable so they can support the elbows.
	the workstation provides sufficient space to find a comfortable position and allow for changes in position
	They advise the user to avoid awkward reaches, twisting to use the phone etc. Ensure there is enough legroom (at least 600 mm deep) and that the work surface should be at least 69 cm high and a maximum of 3 cm thick
	They advise the user on the guidelines of body posture, the most comfortable/correct height of the PC terminal and the recommended frequency of work breaks.
	Apart from office based staff, Court based staff (such as Solicitors, Barristers and Ushers) are cared for in the same way as set out above ... as are the independent Judiciary. In addition to our Office and Court personnel, the DCA also employs people who deal with the more physical aspects of the Departments remit, such as Bailiffs, Security personnel and Enforcement/Fines Officers.
	Staff who have roles that may potentially have a detrimental effect on their back are given training on Manual Handling (including lifting, bending, twisting) and, for Bailiffs and Enforcement teams who go out into the community, training on Driving Skills (including posture), Control and Restraint, Arrest Techniques, Conflict Handling and any other training that will aid them in their role and reduce the risk of injury to their back is provided.
	In addition to explaining the Health and Safety requirements at Induction, delivering training to minimise the risk of causing or aggravating back pain and providing a robust Occupational Health provision (including a telephone Helpline) that can identify, reduce and then deal with 'back conditions', the DCA also proactively looks to reduce incidents and accidents that may cause chronic back pain by having:
	A dedicated Health and Safety unit that aims to ensure the DCA meets all of it's legal requirements
	Union (PCS) appointed Health and Safety Representatives that raise any possible issues that could have detrimental consequences on staff health
	Clearly visible posters, in offices, on the correct lifting and handling techniques' and the 'correct sitting posture'
	Notice Boards containing information and general tips on keeping the workplace clear of obstructions that can cause trip and slip accidents ... which in turn can result in back pain.
	Work-Life Balance Policies that help staff deal with any back problems they may have by acknowledging that individuals, at all stages of their lives, work best when they are able to achieve a appropriate balance between work and all other aspects of their lives
	The option of joining the Beneden Healthcare Society, for the sum of £1.10 per week per person, staff can seek assistance in organising or paying for any medical treatment, including chronic back pain.
	The ability to access the Civil Service Benevolent Fund to help with any financial costs arising from any back condition
	The option of joining the CSSC Sports & Leisure Limited at a low monthly Subscription (£2.75 per month for 'Membership' and £5.50 per month for 'Membership Plus'), in order to get and stay fit and in turn reduce the risk of developing chronic back pain and/or alleviate some of the symptoms
	A dedicated DCA Welfare Service that supports and advises staff both during any absence from work and following their return.
	My Department aims to ensure that all staff are aware of their own personal responsibilities in taking care of their back, but should a member staff develop chronic back pain, as a Department, we aim to make sure the individual(s) concerned are supported and cared for.

Domestic Violence

Michael Penning: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs how many defendants to allegations of domestic violence in the criminal courts were allowed personally to cross-examine the complainant in (a) England and Wales, (b) Hemel Hempstead magistrates court, (c) Watford magistrates court and (d) St. Albans Crown court in 2005.

Harriet Harman: This information is not collected so cannot be provided without incurring disproportionate cost.

Electoral Administration

Oliver Heald: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs whether the right hon. Member for Makerfield made comments on pre-publication drafts of the Electoral Administration Bill; and if she will make a statement.

Harriet Harman: I can confirm that the right hon. Member for Makerfield was not shown pre-publication drafts of the Electoral Administration Bill. I refer the hon. Gentleman to my answer to his previous question on this issue for further detail.

Electoral Administration

Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs if she will make a statement on the potential role on the internet and email in the process of (a) registering to vote and (b) voting in general elections.

Harriet Harman: The electoral process needs to fit with modern lifestyles and allow better access for those who find the voting process difficult. To this end, the Government are exploring options to improve the process of electoral registration and voting process. Any improvements to the system would however need to take into account security considerations; being at least as secure, if not more secure, than arrangements currently in place.
	When the Co-ordinated Online Record of Electors (CORE) project is fully implemented we are proposing that electors may be able to access their information securely online and notify an ERO of any changes via the CORE system. Some EROs already use email and the internet to improve efficiency in parts of the registration process. However the law does not permit the use of email or internet for all electoral registration functions. In additional to this, we will also look at how email and the internet might play a role in increasing access to and participation in voting.

Electoral Registration

David Crausby: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs what steps she will take to encourage people to complete and return electoral registration forms.

Harriet Harman: The Electoral Administration Bill, introduced on 11 October, includes a new duty on electoral registration officers to take all necessary steps to ensure comprehensive registers including sending the canvass form more than once to any address and making house to house inquires on more than one occasion. The Department for Constitutional Affairs (DCA), as part of its ongoing programme of democratic engagement, is actively working with committed organisations to promote awareness of voter registration at the national and local levels and in particular to deliver a pan-London campaign ("Get London Registered") directed at London's 'urban youth'. DCA is also working with the Department for Education and Skills, student unions, universities and colleges and local authorities to encourage London's eligible student population to register to vote.

Electoral Registration

David Crausby: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs what plans she has to change the electoral registration system.

Harriet Harman: The Electoral Administration Bill, currently before Parliament, includes a number of provisions that make changes to the electoral registration system. These include provisions to allow people to register to vote nearer the date of election; a new system of anonymous registration for vulnerable people; provisions allowing the piloting of the use of personal identifiers; the creation of a new duty on electoral registration officers to take certain steps in maintaining their registers; and the creation of a framework for the development of a consolidated central record of electors.
	The Bill was introduced into Parliament on 11 October 2005. The Bill has completed its House of Commons stages and was introduced into the House of Lords on 11 January 2006.
	Separate to the Bill, draft Representation of the People (England and Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2006 were laid in Parliament on 19 December 2005. This set of regulations includes changes to the rules governing access to, and the supply and sale of, electoral registers.

Fine Defaulting

David Amess: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs if she will make a statement on progress of Operation Payback Two.

Harriet Harman: Operation Payback Two, the second in a series of nationally co-ordinated fine enforcement exercises, was undertaken by Magistrates' courts across England and Wales in November 2004. The initiative resulted in an increase in the payment of over £1.7 million.
	In October 2005 Operation Payback Three took place resulting in an increase in the payment of over £2 million.

Freedom of Information

Roger Williams: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs how many freedom of information applications her Department has received; how many have taken more than 20 days to process; and how many of these gave rise to complaints about the time taken.

Harriet Harman: My Department has received 394 freedom of information requests in the period 1 January 2005 to 30 June 2005. Of these, 99 took longer than 20 days to process. In the same period the Department received eight requests for internal review which included complaints about the time taken.
	My Department is committed to publishing quarterly updates in relation to departmental performance under FOI, including information on both the volume and outcomes of requests. The bulletin for the second quarter was published on 30 September 2005 and can be found on the DCA website at http:/www.foi.gov.uk/statsapr-jun05.htm and in the Libraries of the both Houses. The next bulletin will be published before Christmas, whilst an annual report will be published in early 2006.

House of Lords Appellate Committees

Peter Bottomley: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs on what occasions the Government have (a) sought and (b) obtained an alteration in the composition of an Appellate Committee of the House of Lords; and what the reason for each was.

Harriet Harman: On 4 March 2004 the Treasury Solicitor, acting for the Secretary of State for the Home Department in an appeal to the House of Lords in A and others v. Secretary of State for the Home Department, wrote to the Senior Law Lord drawing attention to a view expressed by a Law Lord in a published lecture in November 2001. She suggested that this view related to a central issue in the appeal and that it would not in the circumstances be appropriate for that Law Lord to sit on the enlarged Committee which would hear the appeal. The Senior Law Lord replied on 25 March 2004 stating that he had been informed by the Law Lord concerned (to whom the Treasury Solicitor had copied her letter) that in view of the position taken by the Secretary of State he would not wish to take part in the hearing of the appeal. He did not do so.
	As far as can be ascertained, this is the only occasion in recent times on which such a representation has been made on behalf of the Government.

Mental Health

David Amess: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs 
	(1)  when she expects to produce a revised edition of the code of practice issued under section 42 of the Mental Capacity Act 2005; and if she will make a statement;
	(2)  if she will make a statement on the operation of sections (a) 57 and (b) 58 of the Mental Capacity Act 2005;
	(3)  if she will make a statement on the operation of Part 1 of the Mental Capacity Act 2005;
	(4)  if she will make a statement on the operation of sections 15 to 21 of the Mental Capacity Act 2005.

Harriet Harman: The Mental Capacity Act gained Royal Assent on 7 April 2005.
	All sections of the Act are due to be implemented by 1 April 2007.
	A revised draft code of practice (under section 42) will be published for consultation in March 2006.
	Sections 57 and 58 create the office of Public Guardian. Richard Brook was appointed as the Public Guardian designate and CEO of the Public Guardianship Office. He will take up his post from early February 2006. Work is underway on the design of the structure and detailed processes of the Office of the Public Guardian. This is the office that will support the Public Guardian in the discharge of his functions.
	Part 1 of the Mental Capacity Act covers 44 sections (including sections 15 to 21) and two schedules and deals with, amongst other things, Lasting Powers of Attorney, the Court of Protection and the Independent Mental Capacity Advocate Service.
	The Lord Chancellor appointed Sir Mark Potter as president designate and Sir Andrew Morritt as vice-president designate of the Court of Protection, with effect from 1 October 2005. A public consultation on the Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy Service was held by the Department of Health. This closed on 30 September 2005 and responses are currently being analysed. There will be further consultations on Lasting Powers of Attorney this month and Court of Protection rules and fees in the summer.

Small Claims Court (Tamworth)

Brian Jenkins: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs what the current waiting time is from allocation to hearing for small claims at Tamworth county court.

Harriet Harman: The latest figures available are those at the end of November 2005 the average waiting time for small claims is 14.8 weeks against a target of 15 weeks

Spoilt Ballot Papers

Shona McIsaac: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs how many spoilt ballot papers there were in each electoral ward in (a) North East Lincolnshire and (b) North Lincolnshire in the most recent local elections in each of those wards.

Harriet Harman: This information is not held centrally. The Returning officer at a local election, has a duty to publish the results of that election, including the names of the candidate(s) elected, the number of votes each candidate received and the number of rejected ballot papers under each head shown in the statement of rejected ballot papers (Rule 44(1 )(c) of the Local Elections (Principle Areas) Rules 1983). There is no duty, however, to inform the Government of the result of a local election. The local authority in question should hold this information.

ENVIRONMENT FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS

Administration Costs

Stewart Hosie: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the total administrative costs for her core Department are; and whether these are regarded as (a) identifiable and (b) non-identifiable for the purposes of public expenditure statistical analyses.

Jim Knight: DEFRA's provisional administration costs outturn for the core Department for 2004–05 is shown in table 4 in the Public Expenditure Outturn White Paper (CMD 6639). All the administration costs, with the exception of administrative costs associated with departmental pay costs, are identifiable for the purposes of Public Expenditure Statistical Analyses.

Animal Health and Welfare

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will introduce a regime whereby single farm payments can be made to farmers who develop an animal health and welfare strategy in conjunction with a veterinary surgeon.

Jim Knight: From 1 January 2007, farmers receiving payments under the single payment scheme will have to fulfil the requirements of three animal welfare directives under the cross compliance regime. We do not intend to make payments to farmers through the money available through the Rural Development Programme for farm health planning, but we do intend to pump prime with £6 million of money from elsewhere.

Animal Movement Licences

Hywel Williams: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what discretion is allowed to applicants on complying with time limits when applying to the British Cattle Movement Service for animal movement licences.

Jim Knight: holding answer 17 January 2006
	The British Cattle Movement Service (BCMS) may issue a movement licence to allow a bovine animal without a passport, aged under two years, to be moved to a hunt kennel or knacker's yard. This licence may be applied for at any time but is valid for only two weeks from the date of issue. It must accompany the animal when it is moved. There is no discretion as to the time limit.
	This is the only type of movement licence issued by BCMS.

Avian Influenza

James Paice: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to her answer of 16 January 2006, Official Report, column 892W, on Avian influenza, on what date the testing of the 3,179 wild birds for avian influenza commenced; and on what dates the mallard and shelduck were (a) found or captured and (b) tested.

Ben Bradshaw: Testing of the 3,179 wild birds, referred to in the answer of 16 January 2006, Official Report, column 892W, commenced on 7 October 2005.
	Samples from the mallard were taken on 14 November 2005 and first tested on 25 November 2005. Samples from the shelduck were also taken on 14 November 2005 and first tested on 6 December 2005.

Biofuels

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what incentives the Government are making available for the development of refining and processing capacity for (a) biomass and (b) other biofuels.

Elliot Morley: The Government are keen to promote the production of biomass heat and electricity, and transport biofuels. Electricity suppliers are required to source 15 per cent. of their electricity from renewables, including biomass, by 2015–16. The co-firing of biomass with coal in conventional power stations is permitted. £66 million of funding has been allocated to develop dedicated biomass power stations, combined heat and power schemes, and heating boilers. £12.5 million is available for household and community renewable energy projects, including biomass heating.
	Support is available to process biomass into a form suitable for use by energy end-users. A cross-departmental team is looking at the recommendations from the Biomass Task Force on ways to overcome the barriers to developing biomass energy. The Government will publish a full response by April. Support for the production of transport biofuels is through the 20 pence per litre cut in the duty rate for biodiesel and bioethanol. Last November, the Government announced that a Renewable Transport Fuels Obligation will be introduced to require 5 per cent. of road fuel to come from a renewable source by 2010. Other measures being considered include duty incentives to encourage the mixing of biomass with hydrocarbons in the conventional refinery process, and an enhanced capital allowance scheme for the cleanest biofuels processing plants. The latter scheme would allow the cost of capital assets to be written off against taxable profits. Regional support grants for capital investment in production plants are already available.

Cattle Passports

Quentin Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many cattle passport applications were refused because the application was received late over the last 12 month period for which figures are available.

Jim Knight: In the calendar year 2005, the Rural Payments Agency refused to issue passports for 13,298 animals born in or imported into Great Britain, because their passport applications were received outside the legal time limit. This amounts to 0.49 per cent. of all applications. All these animals have been registered on the Cattle Tracing System database and issued with a notice of registration.
	4,443 passports initially refused have subsequently been issued following successful appeals.

Correspondence

Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when she will reply to the letter dated 14 November from the right hon. Member for Manchester, Gorton with regard to Mr. Alexander Scott-Marlow.

Jim Knight: I apologise for the delay in responding to this letter, a reply will be sent out shortly.

Correspondence

Stephen Williams: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many letters longer than one sheet of A4 paper were sent by her Department in 2005 in answer to inquiries from (a) hon. Members and (b) the public.

Jim Knight: That information is not held by this Department.

Departmental Estate

Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will list the former (a) buildings and (b) land of (i) her Department and (ii) (A) non-departmental public bodies, (B)agencies and (C) independent statutory bodies for which her Department is responsible which have been sold since 7 May 1997; what the sale price of each (1) was at the time of sale and (2) is at current prices; and whether the money accrued was (x) retained by her Department and (y) claimed by the Treasury.

Jim Knight: The information on sales of freehold land and buildings since June 2001 when DEFRA was created is set out in the following table. The Department does not hold information on current values and these could be provided only at disproportionate cost. The sales proceeds have been retained within the departmental limits agreed by the Treasury and therefore no excess funds have been claimed by the Treasury.
	
		
			 Department/NDPB/ Agency/ISB  Year  Building  Land  Sale price (£) 
		
		
			 DEFRA 2001–021, 2 Torry Laboratory Aberdeenshire — 750,000 
			   Crown House Maidstone Kent — 1,200,000 
			   — Brynsiencyn Oyster Station Gwynedd 2,000 
			   Stockbridge House Cawood North Yorkshire — 880,000 
			   Littlehampton Dwellings West Sussex — 2,788,000 
			   Brooklands Avenue Cambridge Cambridgeshire(5) — 5,250,000 
			   Long Benton Newcastle Tyne and Wear — 300,000 
			   Hoddesdon Buffer Depot Hertfordshire — 6,830,000 
			  
			  2002–03 Gunthorpe Buffer Depot Nottinghamshire — 160,000 
			   Bridgets Farm Martyr Worthy Hampshire (main part of site) — 4,000,000 
			   Harlescott Buffer Depot Shropshire — 1,802,000 
			   Castle House Stafford Staffordshire — 1,300,000 
			   Stockbridge House Dwellings Cawood North Yorkshire — 623,000 
			  2003–04 — Barnhall Wickford Essex 160,000 
			   Bridgets Farm Martyr Worthy Hampshire dwellings — 1,338,000 
			   Brooklands Avenue Cambridge Cambridgeshire(5) — 8,724,000 
			  
			  2004–05 Tattenhall Buffer Depot Cheshire — 361,000 
			   Bridgets Farm Martyr Worthy Hampshire (small part of site) — 10,000 
			   Worplesdon Surrey(6) — 329,000 
			   Kirton Lincolnshire dwelling — 68,500 
			   Boxworth Cambridgeshire dwelling — 165,500 
			  
			  2005–06 Efford Hampshire Lots 1 and 1A (part of site) — 1,402,750 
			   — Efford Hampshire Lot 4 (part of site) 150,999 
			   — Efford Hampshire Lot 5 (part of site) 65,000 
			   Throckmorton Worcestershire dwelling — 245,000 
			   Efford Hampshire dwelling — 152,000 
			   Boxworth Cambridgeshire dwelling — 400,000 
			   Bridgets Farm Martyr Worthy Hampshire (small part of site) — 760 
			  
			 NDPBs  None — — 
			  
			 Agencies  None — — 
			  
			 ISBs  None — — 
		
	
	(3)From 8 June 2001.
	(4)The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs was created on 8 June 2001.
	(5)Part payment in respect of PFI deal.
	(6)Payment under clawback clause from original sale in 1999–2000.

Departmental Expenditure

Martin Horwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much the Department and its agencies have spent on (a) the design and production of new logos and (b) employing external (i) public relations and (ii) graphic design agencies in each year since 2000, broken down by project.

Jim Knight: The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs was formed in June 2001 and all costs provided are from this organisation from that date.
	(a) The costs of design and production of new logos since 2001:
	The cost of producing the DEFRA departmental logo was £24,000 (2002)
	Four other logos have been produced:
	State Veterinary Service—new agency logo cost £14,387 (2005)
	Marine Fisheries Agency—new agency logo cost £4,000 (2005)
	Rural Development Service—new logo cost £1,000 (2004)
	Government Decontamination Service—new agency logo cost £1,000 (2005)
	(b) Since 2001 DEFRA's Communications Directorate has commissioned the following external media relations services:
	
		
			 Agency Project Date Cost (£) 
		
		
			 Good Relations Sustainable Food and Farming 2002 5,900 
			 Biss Lancaster Your countryside your welcome 2002 189,366.67 
			 Red Illegal Imports 2002 121,848.93 
			 Country Porter Novelli Sustainable Development 2002 16,243 
			 Forster Company Darwin Initiative 2003 11,170 
			 Media Moguls Illegal Food Imports Campaign Phase l July 2004 to March 2005 261,558.70 
			 Media Moguls Illegal Food Imports Campaign Phase 2 August 2005 to present 22,362.31 
			 Amazon Public Relations Launch of the Sustainable Development Strategy January 2005 to May 2005 55,904.84 
			 Amazon Public Relations Sustainable Development case studies August 2005 to date 18,750 
			 Weber Shandwick Climate Change October 2005 to March 2006 60,000 
		
	
	All agencies provided specialist skills and services not currently available within DEFRA's Communications Directorate.

Departmental Expenditure

Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the annualexpenditure on vehicles by (a) her Department and (b) each (i) non-departmental public body, (ii)Executive agency and (iii) other public body for which she is responsible in (A) Scotland, (B) Wales, (C) each of the English regions and (D) Northern Ireland was in each of the last three financial years; and what the planned expenditure is for 2005–06.

Jim Knight: Details of annual expenditure on vehicles are not held centrally for DEFRA and the bodies for which it is responsible, and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

Departmental Expenditure

John Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much her Department spent on bottled water in 2004–05.

Jim Knight: For the financial year 2004–05 my Department spent a total of £20,400 on bottled water at its HQ offices in London, Guildford and York. Costs for the remainder of the estate would be very difficult to separately identify and are therefore not included. Similarly, the figure does not include the provision of bottled water for hospitality that is paid for from decentralised budgets.

Energy Efficiency

Gregory Barker: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the percentage change was in energy efficiency in (a) domestic buildings, (b) commercial buildings and (c) Government buildings between 2000 and 2005 (i) in total and (ii) in each year.

Elliot Morley: The tables give our best estimates of energy efficiency changes at the present time.
	However, only those for households represent proper energy efficiency improvements, based on summing the contributions made by individual technical measures such as insulation and high efficiency boilers and lights. The Government are extending this approach to the industrial and services sectors, but will require much more detailed data to produce reliable indicators.
	Historically, they have used change in energy intensity (i.e. energy per unit output—usually gross value added (GVA)) as a proxy for change in efficiency, while recognising that intensity change also includes structural change in business as well as change in demand for the underlying services provided by energy such as thermal comfort and illumination. Accordingly, comparisons at the moment between indicators for housing and for larger buildings are not meaningful.
	No data are available yet for 2005, nor GVA figuresseparately for the commercial and government subsectors for 2004.
	
		Percentage improvement in energy efficiency
		
			  Domestic 
		
		
			 2000–04 7.6 
			 2000–01 2.3 
			 2001–02 1.8 
			 2002–03 1.8 
			 2003–04 1.9 
		
	
	
		Percentage improvement in energy intensity
		
			  Commercial Government 
		
		
			 2000–03 11 20 
			 2000–01 2 2 
			 2001–02 9 12 
			 2002–03 0 6

Entry Level Scheme Criteria

Norman Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will amend the Entry Level Scheme criteria to give greater reward for activities in upland areas, with particular reference to (a) maintenance of stone walls and (b) mixed stocking options.

Jim Knight: holding answer 16 January 2006
	We will be considering all Entry Level Scheme options available for upland farmers, including stone wall maintenance, as part of our current evaluation of Environmental Stewardship. The initial results from this will be available in the spring. Decisions on the inclusion of mixed stocking options will depend on the outcome of the Hill Farming Allowance review.

EU Committees

Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many meetings of the EU (a) Committee on the Community action programme in the field of civil protection, (b) Committee on the control of major accident hazardsinvolving dangerous substances (Seveso II) and (c) Committee for the implementation of the Community framework for cooperation in the field of accidental or deliberate marine pollution have taken place during the UK presidency of the EU; who was presiding over each meeting; what other UK representatives were present; what provisions were made for representation of the devolved governments; and if she will make a statement.

Elliot Morley: During the UK presidency the Committee of the Community action programme in thefield of civil protection met on 20–21 October. The Committee was chaired by the European Commission and the UK was represented by a Cabinet Office official.
	The Committee on the control of major accident hazards involving dangerous substances (Seveso II) meton 13 October. The Committee was chaired by a representative from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) which, together with the Environment Agency (EA) and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, comprises the UK Competent Authority for the Seveso directive. Officials from the HSE and the EA attended and represented the UK.
	There was also one meeting of the Committee for the implementation of the Community framework for co-operation in the field of accidental or deliberate marine pollution. The meeting was chaired by the European Commission. The UK representative was from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, which is the competent authority for dealing with marine pollution.
	The devolved Administrations are routinely asked to represent their views.

EU Committees

Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many meetings of the EU (a) Committee for the adaptation to scientific and technical progress of the directive on protection of water against pollution caused by nitrates from agricultural sources, (b) Management Committee on application of the directive on the standardisation and rationalisation of reports on the implementation of certain directives relating to the environment and (c) Committee for adaptation to technical and scientific progress of the directive on conservation of wild birds have taken place during the UK presidency of the EU; who presided over each meeting; what other UK representatives were present; what provision was made for representation of the devolved governments; and if she will make a statement.

Elliot Morley: During the UK presidency there was one meeting of the committee for the adaptation to scientific and technical progress of the directive on protection of water against pollution caused by nitrates from agricultural sources, which was held on 12 December and was chaired by the European Commission. Officials from DEFRA, SEERAD and DOENI represented the UK.
	On 3 November, the Management Committee on the application of the directive on the standardisation and rationalisation of reports on the implementation of certain directives relating to the environment, discussed, on this occasion, a questionnaire on the implementation of the integrated pollution prevention and control (IPPC) directive, and was chaired by the European Commission. There was no representative from the UK at this particular meeting.
	No committees were held during this period for the adaptation to technical and scientific progress of the directive on conservation of wild birds.
	The devolved Administrations are routinely asked to represent their views.

EU Committees

Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many meetings of the EU (a) management committees of the common organisation of agricultural markets for poultrymeat and eggs, (b) management committees of the common organisation of agricultural markets for fresh fruit and vegetables and (c) management committees of the common organisation of agricultural markets for products processed from fruit and vegetables have taken place during the UK presidency of the EU; who presided over each meeting; which other UK representatives were present; what provision was made for representation of the devolved governments; and if she will make a statement.

Jim Knight: The Eggs and Poultrymeat Management Committee met during the UK presidency on 13 July, 20 September, 19 October, 16 November and 7 December 2005. Meetings were chaired by European Commission officials. The UK was represented by one official from DEFRA. The devolved authorities were consulted on agenda items prior to each meeting, and receive reports and papers shortly after each meeting.
	Meetings of the Management Committee for Fresh Fruit and Vegetables were held on 12 July, 13 September, 18 October, 22 November and 13 December. The Management Committee for Processed Fruit and Vegetables also met on all of these dates with the exception of 13 December. The Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Management Committee also met in the margins of the Wine Management Committee on 7 July and in the margins of the Cereals Management Committee on 25 August. All meetings were held in Brussels, chaired by officials of the European Commission and attended by DEFRA officials.
	The UK Government take into account the views and interests of the devolved administrations when formulating the UK's policy position on all EU and international issues which touch upon devolved matters. Provision for attendance at EU meetings by Ministers and officials of the devolved administrations is set out in paragraphs 4.12–15 of the Concordat on Co-ordination of European Union Policy Issues (part of the Memorandum of Understanding between devolved Ministers and the UK Government).

EU Committees

Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many meetings of the EU (a) management committees of the common organisation of agricultural markets for wines, (b) management committees of the common organisation of agricultural markets for raw tobacco and (c) management committees of the common organisation for agricultural markets for hops have taken place during the UK presidency of the EU; who presided over each meeting; which other UK representatives were present; what provisions were made for representation of the devolved governments; and if she will make a statement.

Jim Knight: The Wine Management Committee met seven times during the UK presidency of the European Union with the UK being represented by DEFRA. All of these meetings were presided over by European Commission officials.
	The Tobacco Management Committee met twice during the UK presidency, on 19 September and 22 November. Both meetings were held in Brussels, chaired by officials of the European Commission and attended by DEFRA officials.
	There were no management committees held for hops under the UK presidency.
	The UK Government take into account the views and interests of the devolved Administrations when formulating the UK's policy position on all EU and international issues which touch upon devolved matters. Provision for attendance at EU meetings by Ministers and officials of the devolved Administrations is set out in paragraphs B4.12–15 of the Concordat on Co-ordination of European Union Policy Issues (part of the Memorandum of Understanding between devolved Ministers and the UK Government, available on the internet at www.dca.gov.uk/constitution/devolution/pubs/odpm_dev_ 600629.pdf).
	Ministers from the devolved Administrations have attended and do attend Councils, by agreement with the lead Whitehall Minister.

EU Committees

Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many meetings of the EU (a) Standing Forestry Committee and (b) Committee on the conservations, characterisation, collection and utilisation of genetic resources in agriculture have taken place during the UK presidency of the EU; who presided over each meeting; which other UK representatives were present; what provisions were made for representation of the devolved governments; and if she will make a statement.

Jim Knight: The Standing Forestry Committee met three times during the UK presidency of the EU. All three meetings were presided over by officials from the European Commission (DG Agriculture and Rural Development, and DG Environment) and were attended by officials from the Forestry Commission. Provision for representation of the devolved Governments is made through the EU Forestry Group, which is an informal group created by the Forestry Commission to consult with the devolved Administrations and other Government Departments to agree a UK line to take to the EU negotiations.
	The Committee on the conservation, characterisation, collection and utilisation of genetic resources in agriculture did not meet during the UK presidency of the EU. However the Committee's Management Committee (ManCom) did meet once to consider the details of a Community programme established under Council Regulation (EC) 870/2004 to encourage the achievement of these aims. The meeting was chaired by EC officials (DG Agriculture) and was attended by DEFRA officials. DEFRA officials take account of views expressed by experts of the devolved governments who sit on the advisory bodies of the National Steering Committee for Farm Animal Genetic Resources and the United Kingdom Plant Genetic Resources Group.
	Projects for funding under the first call for proposals under EC 870/2004 are currently being considered. A call for a second round of proposals is expected to be issued shortly.

Hill Farm Allowances

Norman Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will extend the current hill farm allowance scheme for a further 12 months.

Jim Knight: holding answer 16 January 2006
	In autumn 2004 DEFRA officials began reviewing how best to protect the upland landscape from 2007. Decisions on rural funding for the next programme period (2007–13) will be taken following consultation in early 2006.

Kyoto Protocol

Eric Forth: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs by how much carbon dioxide emissions have changed in each of the EU member states which were signatories to the Kyoto protocol since 1990.

Elliot Morley: The table shows carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) emissions in million tonnes of CO 2 (MtCO 2 ) for the 25 EU member states which are all signatories to the Kyoto Protocol and the percentage change in CO 2 emissions between 1990 to 2003. The emissions figures are those reported by parties in 2005 to the United Nations framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) which is the parent treaty for the Kyoto Protocol. Cyprus and Malta are non-Annex I Parties to the Convention, and as such are not required to submit emissions inventories annually.
	These figures include emissions and removals from land-use, land-use change and forestry which provides the most complete coverage of carbon dioxide. The figures are not an indicator of progress with commitments under the Kyoto Protocol because the latter take account of emissions of methane, nitrous oxide and the fluorinated gases as well as carbon dioxide, and include only some activities in the land-use, land use change and forestry sector.
	
		
			  CO 2  emissions (MtCO 2 ) 
			 Country 1990 2003 Percentage change 1990 to 2003 
		
		
			 Austria 52.25 63.44 +21.4 
			 Belgium 115.91 122.84 +6.0 
			 Cyprus n/a n/a n/a 
			 Czech Republic 161.86 123.28 -23.8 
			 Denmark 54.38 59.55 +9.5 
			 Estonia 31.79 10.39 -67.3 
			 Finland 33.50 55.38 +65.3 
			 France 364.26 355.08 -2.5 
			 Germany 986.09 829.68 -15.9 
			 Greece 80.77 104.44 +29.3 
			 Hungary 83.43 56.50 -32.3 
			 Ireland 31.39 43.47 +38.5 
			 Italy 369.75 405.38 +9.6 
			 Latvia 0.20 -0.76 -480.0 
			 Lithuania 33.44 5.30 -84.2 
			 Luxembourg 12.46 10.40 -16.5 
			 Malta 1.90 n/a n/a 
			 Netherlands 160.89 179.62 +11.6 
			 Poland 441.88 293.18 -33.7 
			 Portugal 49.18 94.51 +92.2 
			 Slovak Republic 57.04 38.22 -33.0 
			 Slovenia 13.04 10.54 -19.2 
			 Spain 219.37 291.64 +32.9 
			 Sweden 35.99 34.50 -4.1 
			 United Kingdom 591.42 555.93 -6.0 
		
	
	n/a=not available.

Leisure Boating

Mark Lancaster: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what actions the Government have taken to help promote leisure boating on Britain's canals.

Jim Knight: The Department provides financial support for the three major navigation authorities to enable them to maintain their waterways in a suitable condition for recreational use such as boating. The Government's policy document on the inland waterways, Waterways for Tomorrow" makes it clear that the Government wants to encourage people to use the waterways for leisure and that it will encourage their use for this purpose.

Media Monitoring

Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much the Department and its predecessors spent on media monitoring activities in each of the last eight financial years.

Jim Knight: The Department's Press Office spent the following on media monitoring:
	
		Media monitoring costs DEFRA Press Office
		
			 Financial year Total (£) 
		
		
			 2001–02 183,266 
			 2002–03 283,085 
			 2003–04 298,695 
			 2004–05 340,471 
			 April to November 2005–06 (YTD ) 312,498 
		
	
	These figures include the Department's subscription to the Cabinet Office's Media Monitoring Unit and the cost of DEFRA's press cuttings service.
	DEFRA was created following the General Election in June 2001, retrospective information before this date of the detail requested, incurred by the merged government bodies brought together to create DEFRA, could not be made available without incurring a disproportionate cost.

Official Overseas Visits

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will list all official overseas visits undertaken by officials in her Department, broken down by directorate, in each year since May 2001; what the cost in cash and real terms was; how many official engagements and meetings were undertaken on each visit; how many officials took part in each visit, broken down by grades; and if she will make a statement.

Jim Knight: The costs (cash) incurred in relation to overseas travel is as follows:
	
		
			 Financial year Costs incurred (£) 
		
		
			 2001–02 1,328,461 
			 2002–03 1,642,238 
			 2003–04 1,558,319 
			 2004–05 1,551,340 
		
	
	Unfortunately we are unable to provide the additional information requested as this information is not maintained centrally nor is it collated within business areas of DEFRA and it would not be economically viable to attempt to collate it.

Pheasant Shooting

Roger Williams: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many complaints her Department has received in the last 12 months on the effects on (a) residential amenities and (b) the environment of the rearing and release of pheasants for shooting.

Jim Knight: We have not received any complaints on these issues.

Rural Development Funding

Gregory Barker: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment she has made of the likely impact on UK environmental schemes of the recent reduction in pillar II rural development funding.

Jim Knight: Programmes within pillar II of the CAP are designed, in part, to encourage farmers to adopt environmentally beneficial land management practices, and progress is being made. The UK's position is that such targeted programmes need to be continued, and perhaps strengthened with reform. The overall budget for the Rural Development Regulation was agreed as part of the financial perspective (2007–13) negotiations and has been set at €69.75 billion for the whole EU. This is in line with existing expenditure, although the precise allocation of funding is still to be proposed by the Commission. We will continue to argue that this should be based on the need for rural development and not on historical expenditure.
	In addition, as part of the 2003 reforms it was agreed to move some funds from pillar I to pillar II, a process called 'compulsory modulation'. This will increase pillar II funding from the original budget allocation by around €1 billion a year by 2008.
	The UK has also chosen to undertake significant voluntary modulation from pillar I to ensure that sufficient funds are available for domestic rural development. It is possible to transfer up to 20 per cent. of pillar I funds in this way to agreements made after 2006. It is vital to the UK and in England will fund our new Environmental Stewardship Scheme. However, Ministers are still to decide what level may be needed and on the likely size of the new rural development programme to operate from 1 January 2007. In England, we are currently planning to launch a public consultation concerning the content of the new England Rural Development Programme for 2007–13 in February 2006.

Snares

Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will meet (a) Professor Stephen Harris and (b) Les Stocker MBE to discuss the findings of her Department's working group on snares.

Jim Knight: I have asked my officials to contact Professor Harris and Les Stocker to discuss the working group's report.

Sustainable Development

Peter Law: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment has been conducted by her Department of the (a) energy, (b) economic and (c) environmental effects of the production of biofuels from (i) energy crops and (ii) waste straw.

Elliot Morley: The effects of biofuels have been assessed under studies commissioned by DEFRA and DTI from Sheffield Hallam University and the Central Science Laboratory. These found that:
	(a) Biodiesel and bioethanol from energy crops can deliver greenhouse gas savings of at least 55 per cent. compared to fossil fuels. This can be increased to 80 per cent. if the energy used in production is from renewable sources. The technology to convert straw into bioethanol is at an early development stage but offers the potential for greenhouse gas savings of around 85 per cent. compared to conventional diesel.
	(b) The production of biofuels from UK biomass has a net beneficial impact on the UK economy due to the incomes that are generated in the agricultural, manufacturing, engineering construction, retail distribution and transport haulage sectors. There is additional employment where energy crops are grown on set-aside land as more labour is invested in crop production than in maintenance of set-aside. For oilseed rape, about two farming jobs are created (or sustained where crops substitute for other cultivation) for each1,000 tonnes of biodiesel produced. Bioethanol production from wheat and sugar beet would generate around 5.5 jobs/1,000 tonnes of bioethanol production. For both energy crops and straw feedstocks, additional jobs would be created in biofuel processing. A 100,000 tonne biodiesel plant would employ around 62 staff in processing and blending industries. A similar sized bioethanol plant would employ 50–55 staff, plus a further 16–28 in fuel blending and transport. Cambridge University is currently carrying out a review of the farm level economic impacts of energy crop production, including the use of oilseed rape, sugar beet, wheat and straw for biofuel production.
	(c) The crop management of energy crops for biofuel use is broadly the same as that for food crops. Biofuels production from a mix of feedstocks and replacing crops for food would have a neutral effect on biodiversity.
	Any replacement of spring sown break crops with winter oilseed rape would have negative effect on crop diversity and farmland birds. If arable crops replaced natural-regeneration set-aside, this would reduce habitat diversity. The use of straw as a biofuel feedstock would not affect the environment significantly.

WTO (Hong Kong)

Peter Law: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will (a) place in the Library and (b) post on her Department's website documents prepared by her Department for the trade negotiations meeting in Hong Kong; which departmental officials accompanied her to the meeting; and what carbon offset measures were established to cover the Department's delegation.

Jim Knight: My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State's briefing for the WTO ministerial conference in December contains a number of items of personal information which it would not be appropriate to reveal. It also contains sensitive information which it would not be in UK interests to divulge more widely. The Secretary of State therefore does not plan to make it publicly available.
	Six DEFRA officials were included in the UK Government's delegation to the WTO Ministerial conference in Hong Kong.
	Defra is offsetting carbon emissions that arise from department official and Ministerial air travel in 2005–06 including emissions associated with DEFRA's WTO delegation. Carbon offsets will be purchased through the Government Carbon Offsetting Fund, which is being set up to meet the Government commitment to offset all departmental air travel emissions from April 2006

TRANSPORT

A21

Gregory Barker: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how much the Highways Agency has spent on renovating properties purchased under compulsory purchase order along the A21 in East Sussex.

Stephen Ladyman: Draft Orders for the A21 schemes have not yet been published, so no properties are currently subject to compulsory purchase. Three properties in East Sussex were acquired by discretionary purchase under sections 246/248 of the Highways Act 1980, and two were acquired under the statutory blight provisions of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. A total of £90,542.00 plus vat has been spent on refurbishing these properties.

A21

Gregory Barker: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to hold further public consultations on the proposed A21 Upgrade in East Sussex; and whether he has received a report on previous public consultations.

Stephen Ladyman: The Highways Agency will continue to meet and have discussions with those individuals or groups, as requested. The details of the meeting held in December 2005 will be reported back to me shortly and I will write to the hon. Member with further information.

A21

Gregory Barker: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received following the public consultation held in Hurst Green, East Sussex, in 2005 on the proposed A21 upgrade.

Stephen Ladyman: The details of the meeting held in December 2005 will be reported back to me shortly and I will write to the hon. Member with further information.

Aircraft (Contaminated Air)

Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if his Department will work with the United States' Federal Aviation Administration on its research into (a) possible contaminants present in aircraft cabin air and (b) the medical effects on passengers and cabin crew of exposure to contaminated air.

Karen Buck: We are in touch with the research team and will monitor their progress. We have requested an evidence review of documentation submitted by BALPA on this matter by the independent Committee on Toxicity; and this is in hand. The Committee's conclusions should help us to identify future research needs.

Aviation Policy/Safety

Lynne Featherstone: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment the Government have made of the effect of its aviation policy; and if he will make a statement.

Karen Buck: The Government are committed to the monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness and impact of the policies of the White Paper. We will report by the end of 2006 on progress.

Aviation Policy/Safety

Lynne Featherstone: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment the Government have made of the effect of its aviation policy on the welfare of people who live (a) under and (b) close to flight paths; and if he will make a statement.

Karen Buck: The main impact on people living under or close to flight paths around airports relates to aircraft noise. There can also be impacts on local air quality around major airports as a result of air traffic and associated activities, such as road traffic travelling to and from the airport.
	A noise level of 57 dBA Leq (equivalent continuous noise level) over a 16 hour period is regarded as the threshold for the approximate onset of significant community annoyance. This figure was derived from government sponsored research in the 1980s, in particular The United Kingdom Aircraft Noise Index Study" published by the Civil Aviation Authority in 1985.
	The Department publishes annual daytime noise contours covering 57 to 72 dBA Leq for Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted airports. These show the geographical area and estimated population numbers affected by this range of noise levels. Elsewhere it is the responsibility of individual airports to produce aircraft noise contours and a number of major airports do so.
	The Government have also sponsored research into the impact of aircraft noise on sleep. The former Department of Transport published in 1992, the Report of a Field Study of Aircraft Noise and Sleep Disturbance". This study was and remains to date the largest survey of its kind in the United Kingdom. It was found that noise events below 90 dBA SEL (equivalent to about 80 dBA Lmax) were unlikely to affect average sleep disturbance rates, while events noisier than this gave a mean probability of disturbance of about 1 in 75, with a range of individual sensitivities around this average.
	Subsequent government sponsored research resulted in three reports concerning aircraft noise and sleep:
	Adverse Effects of Night-Time Aircraft Noise", CAA, March 2000;
	Aircraft Noise and Sleep 1999 UK Trial Methodology Study", Ian Flindell et al, November 2000;
	Perceptions of Aircraft Noise, Sleep and Health", Ian Diamond et al, December 2000.
	Having considered these reports the Government decided—in 2001—to commission a major new study that would concentrate on subjective responses to annoyance to aircraft noise. This study is reassessing attitudes to aircraft noise—including re-assessment of the association between the Leq index and reported annoyance—as well as attempting to examine subjective valuation of the nuisance from aircraft noise. It is due to report later this year.
	The Future of Air Transport" also sets out the impact of the Government's policies on air quality standards around airports, with further information contained in one of the supporting documents, Air Quality Assessments Supporting the Government's White Paper". Although on a national scale the contribution of air transport and associated activities to local air quality problems are small, locally their effect can be significant. This is especially so at Heathrow and the reason why the Department has set up technical panels to review air quality issues at the airport as part of the Project for the Sustainable Development of Heathrow.
	Copies of reports referred to are available in the House Library and many can be accessed electronically on the Department's website at www.dft.gov.uk.

Aviation Policy/Safety

Gwyneth Dunwoody: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport 
	(1)  if he will make a statement on the progress of standardisation of aviation safety standards across the EU;
	(2)  when he expects that the European Aviation Safety Agency Standardisation Regulation will be implemented.

Karen Buck: Regulation (EC) No. 1592/2002 provides for the Agency to assist the Commission in monitoring the application of the Regulation by conducting standardisation inspections of member states national aviation authorities. This provides for a more effective standardisation of aviation safety standards across Europe than was possible under the mechanisms put in place by the Joint Aviation Authorities which had no legal force.
	However, the Agency cannot put in place its standardisation processes until the European Commission has adopted the necessary implementing measures. The draft text of the Standardisation Regulation was agreed in December 2005 by the committee of member states representatives which assists the Commission in drawing up the various implementing regulations it is required to develop. The draft has to complete formal Commission processes before its adoption which we expect within the next month.
	We consider the effective monitoring and standardisation of standards in member states to be one of the most important aspects of the new EASA system. We hope that the Standardisation Regulation can be adopted soon, so that the Agency can devote the necessary resources yet to this work.

Bus Services (Lincolnshire)

Shona McIsaac: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how much Government financial assistance has been provided to (a) North East Lincolnshire and (b) North Lincolnshire for the provision of bus services in each of the five most recent years for which figures are available.

Karen Buck: Local transport authorities make their own decisions on the level of support for bus services in their area. The Government's Revenue Support Grant is a major element in the resources available to them for this purpose. The following tables show expenditure by the two local authorities concerned on bus support and concessionary fares on local bus services:
	
		North East Lincolnshire -- £000
		
			   Bus support Concessionary fare reimbursement 
		
		
			 2000–01 128 452 
			 2001–02 75 497 
			 2002–03 76 710 
			 2003–04 334 786 
			 2004–05 350 647 
		
	
	
		North Lincolnshire -- £000
		
			   Bus support Concessionary fare reimbursement 
		
		
			 2000–01 705 403 
			 2001–02 789 556 
			 2002–03 725 579 
			 2003–04 783 478 
			 2004–05 616 588 
		
	
	Included in the figures for bus support is funding provided by this Department's bus grant schemes. The following table shows the total bus grant scheme funding allocated to both authorities since the introduction of the schemes in 1998:
	
		£000
		
			  North Lincolnshire North East Lincolnshire 
		
		
			 Rural Bus Subsidy Grant 2,669 459 
			 Rural Bus Challenge 686 345 
			 Urban Bus Challenge — 376 
			 Kickstart — 523 
		
	
	In addition, all bus operators receive Bus Service Operators Grant, reimbursing the major part (currently 80 per cent.) of the fuel duty paid in operating local services.

Child Seats

Celia Barlow: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what conclusions have been drawn from his Department's consultation on child seats in cars; and when the European Directive 2003/20/EC3 on child seats will be implemented.

Stephen Ladyman: The Department expects to be able to announce the conclusions of the consultation soon. The directive requires implementation by 8 May 2006, and regulations are in preparation.

Cycling England

Ashok Kumar: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how much funding Cycling England plans to allocate to improving the cycling network in (a) the Tees Valley and (b) Middlesbrough, South and East Cleveland constituency area; and what measures will be funded in each case.

Derek Twigg: Cycling England has allocated £2.5 million to Darlington borough council in the Tees Valley as one of the six successful bidders in the Cycle Demonstration Towns project. £2 million is for capital investment to improve cycle facilities, including new and improved cycle routes. A further £35,000 and £40,000 has been allocated respectively to Darlington BC and Stockton-on-Tees BC as part of the 'Links to Schools' programme which Cycling England fund through Sustrans, the promoters of the National Cycle Network.
	Cycling England have made no specific allocation of funding to Middlesbrough, South or East Cleveland, though they will be able to bid for a share of the £1 million Cycling England investment in cycle training. Authorities in those areas can also receive free expert advice on cycling from the advisory services funded by Cycling England.

Drink Driving

Mark Harper: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many (a) fatal and (b) serious road accidents there were in each of the past five years for which figures are available; and how many in each year involved drivers with blood alcohol levels (i) above the legal limit, (ii) below the legal limit but above 50mg per 100ml and (iii) below 50mg per 100ml.

Stephen Ladyman: The number of fatal and serious personal injury road accidents between 2000 and 2004 (the last five years for which figures are available) are shown in table A.
	
		Table A: Fatal and serious personal injury road accidents: 2000 to 2004
		
			  Fatal accidents Serious accidents 
		
		
			 2000 3,108 32,499 
			 2001 3,176 31,588 
			 2002 3,124 30,521 
			 2003 3,247 28,913 
			 2004 2,978 26,748 
		
	
	Information on the blood alcohol level of drivers involved in personal injury road accidents is not collected.
	The estimated number of fatal and serious personal injury road accidents involving illegal alcohol levels between 2000 and 2004 are shown in table B.
	
		Table B: Fatal and serious personal injury road accidents involving illegal alcohol levels: 2000 to 2004
		
			  Fatal accidents Serious accidents 
		
		
			 2000 450 1,950 
			 2001 470 2,020 
			 2002 480 2,050 
			 2003 500 1,970 
			 2004(7) 530 1,790 
		
	
	(7)Provisional estimate

European Aviation Safety Agency

Gwyneth Dunwoody: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport 
	(1)  how the quality and consistency of advice provided by the European Aviation Safety Agency is monitored;
	(2)  how he plans to keep under review the effectiveness of the European Aviation Safety Agency's methods of regulation.

Karen Buck: The European Aviation Safety Agency provides a range of advice to various parties. It issues opinions to the Commission, which will be concerned with the quality and consistency of the advice it receives from the Agency.
	The Agency also issues specifications and guidance material to be used in the certification process. There is no specific process for monitoring the quality and consistency of this advice. However there is an appeal process against the decisions of the Agency and it is possible that appellants could refer to any weaknesses in the advice. In addition an advisory body of interested parties has been set up which may monitor matters of this kind.
	The Management Board has a key role. It is empowered to advise the executive director at any time on any matter related to the strategic development of aviation safety, such as the quality and consistency of advice provided by the Agency or the effectiveness of its methods of regulation. The board may consult the advisory body of interested parties before raising such concerns with the director.
	Also, by September 2006 the board must commission an independent evaluation of the implementation of the regulation which established the Agency. The evaluation will include an examination of how effectively the Agency fulfils its mission, and will thus need to examine both the quality and consistency of its advice and the effectiveness of its methods of regulation.
	The Civil Aviation Authority is keeping under review all aspects of the performance of the Agency and reporting its findings to the Secretary of State. This advice also informs the positions taken in the Management Board by the UK representative, who is the deputy chairman of the board.
	The Secretary of State has written to Jacques Barrot, vice-president of the European Commission to stress the Government's concern about the Agency's performance in the areas covered by this and the hon. Member's related parliamentary questions on the subject. The Secretary of State has sought the commissioner's proposals for resolving these problems as soon as possible and an early meeting at the highest official level.

European Aviation Safety Agency

Gwyneth Dunwoody: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether the European Aviation Safety Agency has published a corporate plan strategy for achieving its objectives.

Karen Buck: Regulation (EC) No. 1592/2002 assigns the Agency various functions for the purposes of the proper functioning and development of civil aviation safety. The Agency is required to publish annually a programme of work for the coming year setting out how it intends to achieve this objective, which contains some of the elements normally expected in a corporate plan.

European Aviation Safety Agency

Gwyneth Dunwoody: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what measures are in place to improve working relationships between the European Aviation Safety Agency and national aviation authorities in EU member states.

Karen Buck: The European Aviation Safety Agency's Management Board has placed considerable emphasis on the importance of developing better working relationships between the Agency and national aviation authorities. The board has agreed that the joint Agency/national aviation authority group it set up to monitor the Agencies manpower planning should also address other issues affecting the Agency/national aviation authority interface as they arise.
	One of the recommendations of this group is that the Agency should hold discussions with each national authority on certain aspects of manpower planning and it is hoped that these discussions will provide an opportunity to build up working relationships more generally. Initial discussions have already been held with the UK Civil Aviation Authority.

European Aviation Safety Agency

Gwyneth Dunwoody: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what formal contractual arrangements are in place between the European Aviation Safety Agency and national aviation authorities in EU member states to plan and manage technical resources.

Karen Buck: The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have established framework contracts under a common format with the majority of national aviation authorities, the object of which is, for a period of three years following signature, to:
	assist the European Aviation Safety Agency in the execution of its tasks in the fields of certification, as specified in article 15 of Regulation (EC) No 1592/2002."
	The framework goes on to make clear that:
	Signature of the contract imposes no obligation on the parties to purchase or provide services. Only implementation of the contract through order forms and specific contracts is binding on the parties."
	The framework contract between EASA and the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) was signed on 1 June 2005. Subsequently EASA have issued order forms for the provision of technical assistance for limited periods of up to three months. The CAA currently has an order covering January and February 2006.
	The framework contract does not provide for the planning or management of technical resources, other than to meet regularly in a review capacity. In practice EASA and the CAA meet monthly to exchange information pertaining to these issues.

Inter-ministerial Meetings (Scottish Executive)

Michael Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many inter-ministerial meetings his Department has held with the Scottish Executive since May 1999, broken down by (a) Scottish Executive department, (b) subject and (c) date.

Karen Buck: Ministers have regular dialogues with Ministerial colleagues in the Scottish Executive, discussing a wide range of issues of mutual interest. It is not our practice to disclose details of such meetings.

Leeds Supertram

Colin Challen: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received following his announcement regarding Leeds Supertram.

Derek Twigg: Following the Secretary of State for Transport's announcement on 3 November 2005 regarding Leeds Supertram, 50 letters have been received concerning the scheme, including three from hon. Members. Five parliamentary questions have been asked which refer to Leeds Supertram.

Low-speed Zones

Chris Grayling: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many home zones areas have been established in each of the last five years; and what the total cost was in each of those years.

Derek Twigg: Through the one-off Home Zones Challenge programme, a total of £30 million funding was allocated to individual schemes in England for the period 2001–05. This fund was not based on yearly allocations. Of the 61 schemes selected for funding, 59 have been implemented while, as a result of public votes, two were not taken beyond the public consultation stage.
	Local authorities also implemented a number of other home zones using their own resources or single capital pot resources supported by Government. The Department does not have a comprehensive return listing the number of schemes or their total cost. However, local authority returns indicate that £12.6 million of the capital allocations, made available by the Department for authorities to implement small schemes according to their priorities and policies, has been spent on home zones. The breakdown is £1.9 million in 2001–02, £2.8 million in 2002–03, £2.5 million in 2003–04, £3.6 million in 2004–05 and an estimated £1.8 million in 2005–06.

Office Equipment

Michael Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many (a) personal computers, (b) laptops, (c) servers, (d) printers, (e) scanners, (f) photocopiers and (g) fax machines (i) his Department and (ii) each (A) non-departmental public body, (B) executive agency and (C) other public body for which his Department is responsible in (1) Scotland, (2) Wales and (3) each of the English regions owned in (x) 2003–04 and (y) 2004–05.

Karen Buck: The information for the Department, its agencies, NDPBs and related bodies is as follows:
	DfT HQ
	The requested information is not held centrally and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. The following figures are estimates based on the available information.
	
		
			  2003–04 2004–05 
		
		
			 Personal computers 2,279 2,113 
			 Laptops 427 778 
			 Servers 102 105 
			 Printers n/a 506 
			 Scanners 33 28 
			 Photocopiers(8) 209 233 
			 Fax machines n/a n/a 
		
	
	(8)The vast majority of photocopiers are leased.
	British Transport Police Authority
	The British Transport Police Authority was established as an NDPB on 1 July 2004. Therefore, the requested figures, as provided by the BTP, are only applicable for the year 2004–05.
	
		
			  2004–05 
		
		
			 Personal computers 1,809 
			 Laptops 451 
			 Servers 70 
			 Printers 419 
			 Scanners 30 
			 Photocopiers 117 
			 Fax machines 165 
		
	
	
		Civil Aviation Authority
		
			  2003–041 2004–05 
		
		
			 Personal computers 880 850 
			 Laptops 570 550 
			 Servers 100 100 
			 Printers 510 560 
			 Scanners 75 02 
			 Photocopiers 48 48 
			 Fax machines 60 60 
		
	
	(9)Figures for 2003–04 are estimates.
	
		Driving Standards Agency
		
			  2003–04 2004–05 
		
		
			 Personal computers 807 1,457 
			 Laptops 100 135 
			 Servers 43 46 
			 Printers 147 540 
			 Scanners 4 11 
			 Photocopiers(10) 14 14 
			 Fax machines 415 417 
		
	
	(10)13 of the 14 photocopiers are leased.
	
		Driver Vehicle and Licensing Agency
		
			  2003–04 2004–05 
		
		
			 Personal computers 9,963 9,089 
			 Laptops 324 381 
			 Servers 341 482 
			 Printers 2,630 3,226 
			 Scanners 173 203 
			 Photocopiers(11) 210 210 
			 Fax machines 371 384 
		
	
	(11)All photocopying machines are leased not owned.
	
		Government Car and Despatch Agency
		
			  2003–04 2004–05 
		
		
			 Personal computers 88 94 
			 Laptops 9 13 
			 Servers 6 5 
			 Printers 38 41 
			 Scanners 1 3 
			 Photocopiers 8 9 
			 Fax machines 9 9 
		
	
	
		Highways Agency
		
			  2003–04 2004–05 
		
		
			 Personal computers 2,469 2,829 
			 Laptops 633 663 
			 Servers 258 329 
			 Printers 508 437 
			 Scanners 33 40 
			 Photocopiers(12) 17 29 
			 Fax machines 115 123 
		
	
	(12)In addition there are also a number of leased photocopiers in HA (61 in 2003/4 and 94 in 2004–05).
	
		Maritime and Coastguard Agency
		
			  2003–04 2004–05 
		
		
			 Personal computers 794 814 
			 Laptops 395 428 
			 Servers 102 135 
			 Printers 450 467 
			 Scanners 80 89 
			 Photocopiers 70 72 
			 Fax machines 206 208 
		
	
	Northern Lighthouse Board
	We are not able to identify numbers of items held in each Financial Year. However, the current numbers of items held are shown in the table. The number of items held in 2003–04 and 2004–05 would not have varied much from the current numbers.
	
		
			  Number 
		
		
			 Personal computers 113 
			 Laptops 188 
			 Servers 31 
			 Printers 67 
			 Scanners 7 
			 Photocopiers 10 
			 Fax machines 8 
		
	
	
		Strategic Rail Authority
		
			  2003–04 2004–05 
		
		
			 Personal computers 683 683 
			 Laptops 206 206 
			 Servers 97 97 
			 Printers 118 118 
			 Scanners 8 8 
			 Photocopiers 13 13 
			 Fax machines 15 15 
		
	
	
		Trinity House Lighthouse Service
		
			  2003–04 2004–05 
		
		
			 Personal computers 180 200 
			 Laptops 110 130 
			 Servers 40 42 
			 Printers 120 100 
			 Scanners 28 28 
			 Photocopiers 26 26 
			 Fax machines 29 29 
		
	
	Note:
	Figures are estimates based on the available information.
	
		Vehicle Certification Agency
		
			  2003–04 2004–05 
		
		
			 Personal computers 107 112 
			 Laptops 48 53 
			 Servers 20 22 
			 Printers 18 20 
			 Scanners 8 8 
			 Photocopiers 4 4 
			 Fax machines 6 6 
		
	
	
		Vehicle and Operator Services Agency
		
			  2003–04 2004–05 
		
		
			 Personal computers(13) 1,061 607 
			 Laptops 1,083 1,066 
			 Servers 49 49 
			 Printers 930 1,025 
			 Scanners 29 32 
			 Photocopiers 176 176 
			 Fax machines(14) n/a n/a 
		
	
	(13)During 2004 many of the personal computers were replaced with desktop terminals that link to a central server.
	(14)Figures for fax machines are unavailable because they are sourced locally. Therefore, this information is not held centrally and cannot be obtained without disproportionate cost.
	Note:
	The number of information technology assets is constantly changing. There is therefore a 10 per cent. margin of error for any figures shown in this table. A more accurate inventory could not be obtained without disproportionate cost.

Operator Licensing System

Greg Mulholland: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to the answer of 15 December 2005, Official Report, column 226W, on the Transport Commissioners, when he plans to make a statement on the consultation paper on proposals for modernising and streamlining the operator licensing system.

Stephen Ladyman: I refer the hon. Member to my writtenstatement on 19 December 2005, Official Report, column 188WS.

Pensioners (Hendon)

Andrew Dismore: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many pensioners in Hendon have (a) received discounted driving licences and (b) qualified for free bus travel in 2005; and if he will make a statement.

Karen Buck: (a) The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency issued 1,020,328 free driving licences to those aged 70 and over during 2005. It is not known how many of these licences were issued to residents of Hendon.
	(b) In the parliamentary constituency of Hendon, over 17,000 people aged 60 or over were eligible for concessionary travel on London's buses in 2005 In the whole of the London borough of Barnet, 58,300 older people were eligible. However, the take-up of concessionary travel in the constituency of the borough is not known. In London as a whole the take-up rate of concessionary travel permits in 2004 was 85 per cent.

Railways

Gwyneth Dunwoody: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to the answer of 15 November 2005, Official Report, column 1150W, on train operating companies, what the criteria are for the evaluation of costs and benefits of propositions from train operating company franchise bidders.

Derek Twigg: The Department carries out bid evaluation in accordance with HM Treasury-approved standard methodologies for cost benefit analysis.

Railways

Adam Afriyie: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what estimate he has made of the number of passengers who will be using railways in Great Britain by 2014.

Derek Twigg: The Department's published projections for rail use are expressed as passenger kilometres rather than numbers of passengers. Current projections are set out in the paper The Future of Transport: Modelling and Analysis" published on 21 March 2005 which is available on the Department's website. The central projection shows rail passenger kilometres increasing by 33 per cent. between 2000 and 2010 and by 1.3 per cent. a year from 2010 to 2025.

Railways

Stephen Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many rail passenger kilometres were travelled in each of the last five years.

Derek Twigg: The information is as follows:
	
		
			  Total passenger kilometres (billion) 
		
		
			 April 2000-March 2001 38.2 
			 April 2001-March 2002 39.1 
			 April 2002-March 2003 39.7 
			 April 2003-March 2004 40.9 
			 April 2004-March 2005 42.4

Railways

Stephen Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what his Department's target is for an increase in rail use.

Derek Twigg: The Department does not have a current target for an increase in rail use. It has a public service agreement (PSA) to achieve 85 per cent. reliability by March 2006 as reliability was deemed to be the major limiting factor in increasing rail use.

Railways

Stephen Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what the cost was of closing the Strategic Rail Authority.

Derek Twigg: The Strategic Rail Authority has not yet been fully closed. The Authority's 2005 annual report estimated that final cost expected to be incurred is £13.9 million. This relates to staff costs including redundancy.

Railways

Stephen Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many people previously employed by the Strategic Rail Authority in technical and advisory roles have been retained in similar roles elsewhere within the rail industry.

Derek Twigg: The Strategic Rail Authority employed seven technical specialists on 1 April 2005. Of these, six have been retained in the rail industry, three of which transferred to the Department for Transport.

Road Deaths (Lancashire)

Nigel Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many road deaths there have been in the Lancashire county council area in each of the last five years.

Stephen Ladyman: The number of fatalities in personal injury road accidents in Lancashire county council (excluding the unitary authorities of Blackburn with Darwen and Blackpool) for the last five years for which data is available, are given in table.
	
		
			 Year of accident Number of fatalities(15) 
		
		
			 2000 53 
			 2001 62 
			 2002 53 
			 2003 75 
			 2004 54 
		
	
	(15)Deaths within 30 days of the accident. Excludes confirmed suicides, death from natural causes and injuries to pedestrians with no vehicle involvement (e.g. a fall on the pavement).

South East Trains

Clive Efford: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will ensure that all staff are transferred from South East Trains to Govia without any loss of benefits in their terms and conditions of employment and pension rights.

Derek Twigg: All staff currently employed by South Eastern Trains will be transferred to the new Franchisee on the 1 April 2006. Their transfer to the new employer will be in accordance with the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 1981 (TUPE).

Stage Cottage (East Sussex)

Gregory Barker: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what renovation work has been carried out by contractors working for the Highways Agency on Stage Cottage, Hurst Green, East Sussex; and how much they have been paid.

Stephen Ladyman: Stage Cottage has undergone substantial re-decoration and refurbishment at a cost of £22,000.00 plus vat.

Stage Cottage (East Sussex)

Gregory Barker: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans the Highways Agency has to rent out Stage Cottage, Hurst Green, East Sussex following its purchase under a compulsory purchase order in 2005.

Stephen Ladyman: A compulsory purchase order has notyet been published for this scheme. This was a discretionary purchase at the owner's request. The Highways Agency is making arrangements through its managing agent to rent out this property as soon as possible.

Stage Cottage (East Sussex)

Gregory Barker: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how much the Highways Agency has spent on Stage Cottage, Hurst Green, East Sussex since it was purchased under a compulsory purchase order.

Stephen Ladyman: A compulsory purchase order has not yet been published for this scheme. This was a discretionary purchase at the owner's request. A total of £24,481 plus VAT has been spent on Stage Cottage, which includes the refurbishment and management, maintenance and security costs.

Traffic Accidents (Ribble Valley)

Nigel Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many (a) fatal and (b) serious road traffic accidents occurred in Ribble Valley constituency in each year since 1997.

Stephen Ladyman: The number of fatal and serious personal injury accidents that occurred in the parliamentary constituency of Ribble Valley for each year since 1997, is given in table.
	
		
			  Accident severity 
			 Year of accident Fatal Serious 
		
		
			 1997 11 84 
			 1998 16 93 
			 1999 8 73 
			 2000 6 68 
			 2001 10 76 
			 2002 7 73 
			 2003 7 62 
			 2004 3 51 
		
	
	The accidents in the table are those which occurred within the 2004 boundary of Ribble Valley constituency.

Transport Strategy Documents

Chris Grayling: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will list the transport strategy documents published by his Department and its agencies since 1997.

Karen Buck: Since 1997, the Department for Transport, and its predecessors, have published the following documents relating to overarching transport strategy:
	'A New Deal for Transport: Better for Everyone The Government's White Paper on the Future of Transport (July 1998)
	Transport 2010—The 10 Year Plan (July 2000)
	'Delivering Better Transport: Progress report' (December 2002)
	'The Future of Transport: a network for 2030' (July 2004).

Unlicensed Taxis

Greg Mulholland: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what recent estimate his Department has made of the number of unlicensed taxis operating in (a) England and (b) Leeds North West.

Karen Buck: We have made no estimate of the extent of unlicensed taxi operation either in England as a whole or in particular local areas. However, relevant data is held by the Court Proceedings Database of the Office for Criminal Justice Reform.
	Taxis in England must be licensed by the relevant local authority under the Town Police Clauses Act 1847. Individuals who attempt to provide a taxi service without being properly licensed normally do so by contravening section 45 of the 1847 Act by illegally plying for hire or section 167 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 by touting.
	The Court Proceedings Database shows the numbers of offenders found guilty of offences under the Town Police Clauses Act 1847 (wider than just illegal plying for hire) and s167 of the 1994 Act are as follows; these data are provided on the principal offence basis.
	In 2004, 215 people were found guilty of offences under sections40–68 of the 1847 Act in England; 16 people were found guilty of these offences in the West Yorkshire Police Force Area.
	In 2004, 311 people were found guilty of offences under s167 of the 1994 Act in England; none of these offences were in the West Yorkshire Police Force Area.

Vehicle Testing

Greg Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport on what basis he deems it necessary for private motor vehicles to be tested annually once they are over three-years-old; if he will assess the merits of extending the period between tests beyond 12 months; and if he will make a statement.

Stephen Ladyman: holding answer 16 January 2006
	The primary purpose of the MOT test is to help safeguard against unroadworthy vehicles being used on the road. The average failure rate at annual test is, and has been for many years, around 30 per cent. for cars (equating to 6,752,700 cars), 35 per cent. for light goods (about 173,250 light goods vehicles between 3 and 3.5 tonnes) and 20 per cent. for motorcycles (about 149,000 motorcycles). The failure rate for cars undergoing their first MOT since their initial registration is around 16 per cent. (and equates to 375,000 vehicles). This reflects mainly items prone to wearing such as brake pads and tyres, which high mileage drivers who fail to check their vehicles regularly can easily overlook.
	The current frequency of the test represents a reasonable balance between the cost to the motoring public and the risk to road safety of allowing defective vehicles to go undetected. However Ministers keep this under review.

TREASURY

Audible Fire Alarms

Bob Spink: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what proportion of the premises occupied by his Department is fitted with audible fire alarms.

John Healey: 100 per cent.

Carers

Danny Alexander: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will estimate the cost of the inclusion of carers allowance recipients in the tax credit system.

Dawn Primarolo: Carer's allowance recipients are not excluded from the tax credits system. Carer's allowance recipients who meet the appropriate qualifying conditions are eligible for child tax credit and working tax credit. Information on the current cost of paying tax credits to carer's allowance recipients is not available because we do not separately collect information on tax credits paid to recipients of carer's allowance.

Charities

Phyllis Starkey: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many times HM Revenue and Customs audited the accounts of charitable organisations in each of the last five years.

Dawn Primarolo: The number of audits and enquiries in relation to Gift Aid tax repayment claims and charity tax returns is shown in the table as follows. Information is only available from 2001–02.
	
		
			  Number of audits/inquiries 
		
		
			 2001–02 (16)828 
			 2002–03 813 
			 2003–04 884 
			 2004–05 908 
		
	
	(16)This does not include inquiries made in relation to Scottish charities, for which no record is available for 2001–02.
	Note:
	Figures do not include inquiries raised in respect of any subsidiary trading companies.

Child Care Costs (Tax Exemption)

Paul Goodman: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many firms have claimed a tax exemption on the first £50 a week of child care costs since the introduction of the exemption.

Dawn Primarolo: The information requested is not currently available; Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs are currently assessing and monitoring the impact of the tax and national insurance contributions exemptions for employer supported child care.

Child Trust Fund

Brian Jenkins: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many Child Trust Fund vouchers have been issued to families in Tamworth constituency to date.

Dawn Primarolo: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given on 1 December 2005, Official Report, column 658W, to the hon. Member for Paisley and Renfrewshire, North (Jim Sheridan).

Child Trust Fund

Caroline Spelman: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many staff (a) from the Valuation Office Agency, (b) HM Revenue and Customs and (c) his Department will attend the (i) Mass Appraisal Valuation Symposium in Vancouver on 6–7 February, (ii) Integrating GIS and CAMA Conference in Orlando, Florida on 19 to 22 February and (iii) International Property Tax Institute International Conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in August; and what the total estimated cost to the public purse will be of attendance at each of the events.

Dawn Primarolo: The information requested is as follows:
	
		
			  Number of staff attending 
			  VOA HMRC HMT Estimated cost (£) 
		
		
			 Event 
			 Valuation Symposium Vancouver February 2006 1 0 0 1,000 
			 GIS/CAMA Conference Florida February 2006 1 0 0 1,000 
			 IPTI Conference Kuala Lumpur August 2006 1 0 0 1,000

Departmental Staff (Castle Point)

Bob Spink: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many staff employed by his Department live in Castle Point.

John Healey: None of the staff of the Treasury are known to live in Castle Point.

Economic Activity

Lynne Featherstone: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many people were economically inactive in each London borough in each of the last five years; and if he will make a statement.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Karen Dunnell, dated 19 January 2006
	As National Statistician, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question concerning economic inactivity. (42948)
	The Office for National Statistics (ONS) compiles statistics of inactivity for local areas from the annual local area Labour Force Survey (LFS) and the Annual Population Survey (APS) following International Labour Organisation definitions.
	The attached table shows the numbers of inactive people of working age, resident in each London Borough, for the 12 month periods ending February 2001 to February 2004 from the annual local area LFS, and for the 12 months ending March 2005 from the APS. The table also shows the number of inactive people as a percentage of the total working age population resident in each Borough.
	These estimates, as with any from sample surveys, are subject to a margin of uncertainty. Changes in the estimates from year to year should be treated with particular caution.
	
		Number of persons of working age resident in each London borough who are economically inactive, and working age inactivity rates
		
			  12 months ending February 2001 12 months ending February 2002 12 months ending February 2003 
			 London borough Inactive persons (Thousand) Inactivity Rate(17) (Percentage) Inactive persons (Thousand) Inactivity Rate(17) (Percentage) Inactive persons (Thousand) Inactivity Rate(17) (Percentage) 
		
		
			 Barking and Dagenham 32 33 28 28 28 28 
			 Barnet 43 22 42 21 42 21 
			 Bexley 28 21 28 21 26 20 
			 Brent 51 30 45 26 53 30 
			 Bromley 30 17 34 19 41 23 
			 Camden 37 28 39 28 38 27 
			 City of London 1 (18)30 (19)— (19)— (19)— (19)— 
			 Croydon 42 21 41 20 40 19 
			 Ealing 59 30 54 27 53 26 
			 Enfield 44 26 45 26 45 26 
			 Greenwich 29 22 34 25 40 29 
			 Hackney 45 35 46 34 45 33 
			 Hammersmith and Fulham 28 25 26 22 29 24 
			 Haringey 49 34 50 34 45 30 
			 Harrow 23 18 31 24 32 24 
			 Havering 24 18 26 19 23 17 
			 Hillingdon 33 22 31 20 30 20 
			 Hounslow 29 21 30 22 35 25 
			 Islington 40 33 35 29 38 31 
			 Kensington and Chelsea 27 26 33 30 35 31 
			 Kingston-upon-Thames 20 21 18 19 18 18 
			 Lambeth 40 22 45 24 44 24 
			 Lewisham 37 23 43 26 38 23 
			 Merton 26 22 24 19 20 16 
			 Newham 62 41 61 39 63 40 
			 Redbridge 40 27 35 23 36 24 
			 Richmond-upon-Thames 14 13 19 17 17 15 
			 Southwark 48 30 45 27 47 28 
			 Sutton 14 12 15 13 19 17 
			 Tower Hamlets 49 39 48 37 52 39 
			 Waltham Forest 34 24 37 26 38 27 
			 Wandsworth 31 17 29 16 36 20 
			 Westminster, City of 35 29 38 30 41 31 
		
	
	
		
			  12 months ending February 2004 12 months ending February 2005 
			 London borough Inactive persons (Thousand) Inactivity Rate(17) (Percentage) Inactive persons Thousand) Inactivity Rate(17) (Percentage) 
		
		
			 Barking and Dagenham 29 29 31 31 
			 Barnet 53 25 54 25 
			 Bexley 26 20 25 .18 
			 Brent 51 29 50 29 
			 Bromley 37 20 30 17 
			 Camden 34 24 43 31 
			 City of London (19)— (19)— (19)— (19)— 
			 Croydon 43 20 40 18 
			 Ealing 48 23 49 24 
			 Enfield 42 24 52 29 
			 Greenwich 38 28 38 28 
			 Hackney 48 35 52 37 
			 Hammersmith and Fulham 26 21 30 24 
			 Haringey 57 38 46 31 
			 Harrow 32 23 29 21 
			 Havering 22 16 28 21 
			 Hillingdon 36 23 32 20 
			 Hounslow 33 23 34 24 
			 Islington 35 29 35 28 
			 Kensington and Chelsea 31 27 40 33 
			 Kingston-upon-Thames 19 19 22 22 
			 Lambeth 48 27 45 26 
			 Lewisham 39 24 36 22 
			 Merton 20 16 27 21 
			 Newham 65 42 61 39 
			 Redbridge 38 25 37 24 
			 Richmond-upon-Thames 26 23 29 24 
			 Southwark 42 26 45 28 
			 Sutton 23 20 20 17 
			 Tower Hamlets 48 37 51 38 
			 Waltham Forest 41 30 41 30 
			 Wandsworth 35 19 40 22 
			 Westminster, City of 42 31 41 30 
		
	
	(17)Rate as a percentage of the resident population of working age (men aged 16 to 64, women aged 16 to 59).
	(18)Rounded rate reflects small number in sample resident in City of London.
	(19)Estimate not available, sample size less than three could be disclosive.
	Source:
	Annual local area Labour Force Survey; Annual Population Survey.

Economic Activity

Brian Jenkins: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many people were classed as economically inactive in Tamworth constituency in each of the last 10 years as (a) a percentage of the population of working age and (b) as a total; and if he will make a statement.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Karen Dunnell, dated 19 January 2006
	As National Statistician, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question concerning economic inactivity. (43472)
	The Office for National Statistics (ONS) compiles statistics of inactivity for local areas from the annual local area Labour Force Survey (LFS) and the Annual Population Survey (APS) following International Labour Organisation definitions.
	The attached table shows the number of economically inactive people of working age resident in the Tamworth Parliamentary Constituency, for the 12 month periods ending February 1997 to February 2004 from the annual local area LFS and for the 12 months ending March 2005 from the APS .The table also shows inactivity rates, as a percentage of the resident population of working age.
	These estimates, as with any from sample surveys, are subject to a margin of uncertainty. Changes in the estimates from year to year should be treated with particular caution.
	
		Number and rates of working age persons resident in the Tamworth parliamentary constituency who are economically inactive
		
			 12 months ending Level (Thousand) Rate(20) (Percentage) 
		
		
			 February   
			 1997 12 20 
			 1998 15 25 
			 1999 9 16 
			 2000 9 16 
			 2001 10 16 
			 2002 11 18 
			 2003 11 17 
			 2004 13 21 
			
			 March   
			 2005 11 18 
		
	
	(20)Rate as a percentage of the resident population of working age (men aged 16 to 64, women aged 16 to 59).
	Note:
	Estimates are subject to sampling variability. Changes from year to year should be treated with particular caution.
	Source:
	Annual local area Labour Force Survey; Annual Population Survey.

Electoral Administration/Registers

Chris Ruane: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the registration rate is in each ward of each constituency in (a) England, (b) Northern Ireland and (c) Scotland, listed in descending order and grouped according to region.

John Healey: holding answer 12 January 2006
	The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Karen Dunnell, dated 19 January 2006
	As National Statistician, 1 have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question concerning the registration rate in each ward of each constituency in (a) England, (b) Northern Ireland and (c) Scotland listed in descending order and grouped according to region.(41187)
	I attach tables giving a comparison between the number of registered electors and the estimated population for wards in each parliamentary constituency in England and Northern Ireland. Data for Scotland are not currently available. Because of the length of the tables they have been provided in electronic format and will be placed in the House of Commons Library.
	It should be borne in mind that the percentage of the resident population who are registered to vote does not provide a reliable estimate of the registration rate of the eligible population. This is mainly because there are definitional differences between usually resident" and eligibility to vote and therefore the estimated resident population aged 18 and over is not the same as the number of people eligible to vote. For example, the resident population includes all those who usually live in an area irrespective of nationality whereas the parliamentary electorate excludes foreign nationals (but Commonwealth and Irish citizens are included) and may include some overseas electors who do not currently live in the area. Further, there is inevitably some double counting of the registered electorate and this can occur for a number of reasons. People who have more than one address, including students, may register in more than one place. Electoral registration officers may vary in how quickly they remove people from the registers after they have moved away from an area or after they have died.
	Table 1 contains data for England. The closest available geography to current electoral wards, for which population estimates are available, is Census Area Statistics (CAS) wards. This geography was created for outputs from the 2001 Census and is based mainly on 2003 electoral wards. The electorate counts are on electoral ward boundaries and it has been necessary to convert these to the CAS ward geography.
	The latest available population data available at ward level are for mid-2002, published in April 2005. The ward electorate counts are for December 2002 parliamentary electors, including attainers. The parliamentary electorate has been used rather than the local government electorate even though the latter is definition ally closer to the resident population because the local government electorate is not available at ward level. No adjustment has been made to reflect the difference between these two time points. There are a number of wards that are split by parliamentary constituency i.e. they fall within two or more parliamentary constituencies. These are shown by an asterisk * alongside their ward name, and appear under both constituencies. Electorate and population figures for the whole ward are shown. Some wards will therefore be double counted. It is not possible to split the data for these wards.
	The population data are estimates and as such are subject to a margin of. confidence. This margin of confidence is proportionately larger for ward level estimates than for local authority level estimates. The GAS ward level population estimates have been published with the status of experimental statistics". Therefore, the estimates, and figures derived from them, should be treated with some care.
	There are a relatively small number of wards (19) where the electorate counts are more than 10 per cent. greater than the population estimate. These cases are attributable to definitional differences between the estimates and electoral counts, the margin of confidence in the ward estimates, the accuracy of the electoral registers and limitations in the methodology used to convert electoral counts to the GAS ward geography.
	Table 2 contains data for total electorate for electoral wards in Northern Ireland. The latest available population data available at ward level are from the 2001 Census, taken on 29 April 2001. The ward electorate counts are for 15 October 2001 and include all those registered to vote in any election. These counts do not exclude foreign nationals but do include electors. No adjustment has been made to reflect the difference between these two time points.

Electoral Administration/Registers

Nigel Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many electors there are in each category in each Lancashire constituency according to the current electoral registers; and how many there were in 2005.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician who has been asked to reply.

Equitable Life

Adam Holloway: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what additional funding his Department has provided to the Parliamentary Ombudsman in relation to her investigation into the prudential regulation of Equitable Life.

Des Browne: The Treasury has provided £1.2 million to fund the Parliamentary Ombudsman's investigation into the prudential regulation of Equitable Life and a proportion of £150,000 to cover related legal costs.

European Bank for Reconstruction and Development

Nick Hurd: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer further to the answer of 20 December 2005, Official Report, column 2797W, on the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, whether the bank has approached shareholders since Statutory Instrument 1991 No 757 was made to ask permission to increase payment to employees and retirees for the specific purpose of paying income tax; whether UK nationals are obligated to use pension payments made to them by the bank to buy a taxable investment; what the value has been of pension payments made to employees and retirees by the bank since its inception; and what the most recent valuation is of the assets held in both schemes.

Dawn Primarolo: The European Bank of Reconstruction and Development provides for retirement by making lump sum payments to employees to be invested by them to provide retirement income. As stated in the answer of 20 December 2005, Official Report, column 2797W, a payment made by the bank from the bank's funds to enable an employee to purchase retirement income is, as an emolument of his employment, exempted from UK income tax by paragraph 14 of Statutory Instrument 1991 no 757.
	The emolument paid to staff is determined in accordance with the rules of the bank's retirement plans. At the creation of the bank, its consulting actuaries advised that, based on a range of actuarial assumptions, the lump sum benefits under the plans would enable a married participant with 30 years service to purchase a single life annuity, with contingent spouse pension and indexation, equivalent to 70 per cent. of final EBRD gross base salary. This 70 per cent. figure was purely indicative and was not a commitment to provide a retirement income of such amount. Any income would depend upon the rate of return of the investment. However, this gross salary was initially calculated as the employees' net salary grossed up by the bank's own internal income tax. In 1992 a report by the bank's consulting actuaries found that this approach led to a level of benefits lower than in comparable organisations. Following this report the board of directors— as representatives of the bank's shareholders—on 15 December 1992 decided that the appropriate measure of gross salary for pension purposes would be one that took account of average UK tax rates. Since UK tax rates were, and are, higher than the bank's internal tax, the level of lump sum necessary to generate the same potential level of income, using the original actuarial assumptions, was greater.
	As a result, both bank and employee contributions to the retirement plans which provide the lump sum payments were increased. The tax position of these lump sum payments remains as set out earlier in this answer. As stated in the answer of 20 December 2005, Official Report, column 2797W, retirement income arising from the investment of the payment is liable to income tax in the normal way.
	The EBRD does not make pension payments, it provides a lump sum which is intended for individuals to make investments to provide income in retirement. The form of these investments is for individuals to determine.
	The bank has two plans which support the payment of lump sums at retirement: the Final Salary Plan and the Money Purchase Plan. The payments made since the inception of the plans to end March 2005—the latest date for which audited figures are available—are £50,993,820 and £47,683, 290 respectively. As at 31 March 2005, the value of assets held by the bank in respect of the Money Purchase Plan is £77,628,896 and the value of the assets held by the bank in respect of the Final Salary Plan is £73,810,750.

Family Size

Bob Spink: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many families in the United Kingdom there are with (a) one child, (b) two children and (c) five or more children, broken down by ethnic group.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the national statistician who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Karen Dunnell, dated 19 January 2006
	As National Statistician, I have been asked to reply to your recent question asking how many families in the United Kingdom there are with (a) one child, (b) two children and (e) five or more children, broken down by ethnic group in the UK. (42905)
	Specially commissioned table C0613 has been run to identify the number of families in the United Kingdom with (a) one child, (b)two children and (c) five or more children, broken down by ethnic group. This table can also be obtained via a request to: Census.customerservices@ons.gsi.gov.uk
	The table counts all families with children (dependent and non dependent) and the ethnic group is that of the family reference person.
	For definitions of variables used to create the counts, see the footnotes appended to the table.
	
		Table C0613: Count of families by number of children in families by ethnic group of family reference person -- Population: families
		
			 United Kingdom White Mixed Indian Pakistani Bangladeshi Other Asian 
		
		
			 One child 5,282,575 39,559 115,892 62,885 22,769 26,071 
			 Two children 3,197,289 23,501 86,314 48,177 18,283 19,086 
			 Five or more children 53,139 896 1,585 7,914 3,906 847 
		
	
	
		Population: families
		
			 United Kingdom Black Caribbean Black African Other Black Chinese Other Ethnic group Total family reference persons 
		
		
			 One child 86,929 46,956 9,925 22,671 20,686 5,736,918 
			 Two children 41,817 30,934 5,349 14,935 14,537 3,500,222 
			 Five or more children 948 2,327 226 238 594 72,620 
		
	
	Notes:
	1.Cells in this table have been randomly adjusted to avoid release of confidential data.
	2.The table counts all families with children (dependent and non-dependent) and the ethnic group is that of the family reference person.
	5.43 Family
	A family comprises a group of people consisting of a married or cohabiting couple with or without child(ren), or a lone parent with child(ren). It also includes a married or cohabiting couple with their grandchild(ren) or a lone grandparent with his or her grandchild(ren) where there are no children in the intervening generation in the household. Cohabiting couples include same sex couples. Children in couple families need not belong to both members of the couple.
	5.44 Family Reference Person (FRP)
	In a Lone parent family, the family reference person (FRP) is taken to be the lone parent in a lone-parent family. In a couple family, the FRP is chosen from the two people in the couple on the basis of their economic activity (in the priority order; full-time job, part-time job, unemployed, retired, other). If both people have the same economic activity, the FRP is identified as the elder of the two or, if they are the same age, the first member of the couple on the form.
	5.18 Child
	There is no age limit on the term child. For example, a married couple living with their son aged 40 would be classified as a family consisting of a married couple and their child unless the son has a spouse, partner or child living in the household.
	5.31 Dependent child
	A dependent child is a person aged 0–15 in a household (whether or not in a family) or aged 16–18 in full-time education and living in a family with his or her parent(s). This is a change from the 1991 definition which was a person aged 0–15 in a household or a person aged 16–18, never married, in full-time education and economically inactive. The revised 2001 definition has been agreed following consultation with users. An 'adult' in a household is any person who is not a dependent child.
	Source:
	2001 Census.

Film Industry

Mark Hoban: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what tax reliefs were available for the film industry in each year since 1997; what the cost was in each year; andwhat assessment he has made of the contribution made by the film industry to the economy in each year.

Dawn Primarolo: holding answer 17 January 2006
	With regard to tax relief available to the film industry, I refer the hon. Gentleman to the answer given on 8 December 2005, Official Report, column 1823.
	The information is not available to assess the overall contribution to the economy of the UK film industry, however the UK Film Council publishes statistics including the value of British film productions. These can be found in the UK Film Council's Statistical Yearbook 2004–05", at Chapter 12.

Golden Rule

Austin Mitchell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the impact on the golden rule is of (a) writing off local authority debt and (b) providing gap funding on stock transfers.

Des Browne: Performance against the golden rule is measured using fiscal aggregates that cover the entire public sector: central Government plus local authorities plus public corporations. Transfers between the different levels of Government have no effect on the overall public sector fiscal aggregates.
	As such, the impact on the golden rule is:
	(a) None. Writing off debt owed by local authorities to central Government has no effect on the financial position of the public sector as a whole, or on any of the fiscal aggregates.
	(b) None. Most transactions within the public sector associated with the transfer of housing stock from local authorities to housing associations and the writing off of associated local authority debt where necessary have no effect on the fiscal aggregates for the public sector as a whole. It is only with 'negative value' stock transfers, where the receiving association requires a dowry payment in order to take on the stock and associated liabilities, that there is a requirement for public expenditure. However, as this is a capital grant there is no consequent impact on the golden rule, which only includes current expenditure.

Local Tax Offices

Vincent Cable: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many local tax offices there are; how many have closed in each of the last five years for which information is available; and if he will make a statement.

Dawn Primarolo: HMRC currently operates from 661 sites, of which 242 were former HM Customs and Excise offices and 419 former Inland Revenue offices.
	The number of offices closed since 2001 is shown in the table. Many of these closures arose as Inland Revenue or HM Customs and Excise moved work to other existing buildings within the same location. Information prior to 1 April 2001 is not readily available.
	
		
			 Period HM Customs and Excise Inland Revenue 
		
		
			 1 April 2001 to 31 December 2001 2 15 
			 1 January 2002 to 31 December 2002 12 26 
			 1 January 2003 to 31 December 2003 11 19 
			 1 January 2004 to 31 December 2004 17 16 
			 1 January 2005 to 16 December 2005 10 23

Pool Re

Sarah Teather: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much Pool Re has (a) paid out as a result of the recent London tube and bus bombings, (b) paid out overall during its lifetime and (c) in reserves; and what income has been derived by HM Treasury from Pool Re since it was established.

Des Browne: Pool Re provides reinsurance cover for commercial property damage and consequent business interruption resulting from an act of terrorism on mainland Great Britain (excluding war and cyber terrorism risks).
	(a) Pool Re, and several of its members, are currently dealing with claims arising from the tube and bus bombings of 7 July 2005. However none of the claims has yet progressed to the point where Pool Re has been called upon to make actual payments. This is consistent with Pool Re's claims payment patterns for previous terrorist events.
	(b) Pool Re has paid out £609 million in respect of all incidents it has dealt with to date.
	(c) Pool Re had reserves of £1.664 billion, as shown in its audited accounts at 31 December 2004. This figure has increased since that date.
	Since Pool Re was established £243 million has been paid to HM Treasury in respect of amounts due under the Retrocession Agreement.

Stamp Duty

Caroline Spelman: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the average stamp duty paid by first-time buyers was in (a) England and (b) the United Kingdom in each year since 1996.

Dawn Primarolo: This information is not available as there is no requirement for taxpayers to provide information to HMRC as to whether they are a first-time buyer.

Tax Credits

David Laws: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many tax credit overpayments were (a) disputed and (b) successfully disputed in each month from January to December 2005; and if he will make a statement.

Dawn Primarolo: The number of overpayments disputed, and successfully disputed, between 1 January 2005 and 30 November 2005:
	
		
			  Year 2005 Number of overpayments disputed Successfully disputed(21) 
		
		
			 January 18,500 3,000 
			 February 23,500 2,500 
			 March 42,000 2,500 
			 April 34,500 1,000 
			 May 21,500 26,500 
			 June 28,000 47,500 
			 July 35,000 20,000 
			 August 30,000 24,500 
			 September 30,000 18,000 
			 October 33,000 11,500 
			 November 32,000 4,000 
		
	
	(21)Figures are the number of overpayments remitted in the corresponding month and is not a count of the number of claimants that successfully disputed an overpayment. The figures do not directly relate to the disputes that were received in the same month.
	Notes:
	1.Figures rounded to the nearest 500.
	2.Figures for December 2005 are not yet available.

Tax Credits

David Laws: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer 
	(1)  how many possible cases of tax credit fraud were passed to HM Revenue and Customs Special Compliance Office in each month from April 2004 to April 2005; and if he will make a statement;
	(2)  how many cases of possible fraudulent tax credit claims of over £1,500 have been (a) referred to HM Revenue and Customs Special Compliance Office and (b) passed to local compliance teams to investigate; and if he will make a statement;
	(3)  how many referrals were made to HM Revenue and Customs' Special Compliance Office in each of the last eight years; and what proportion of these referrals were about tax credits for each relevant year.

Dawn Primarolo: The following table shows the total number of referrals received by Inland Revenue's Special Compliance Office and Criminal Investigations, which took over responsibility for prosecuting tax credit claims following the creation of HMRC in April 2005.
	
		
			  Number of referrals 
		
		
			 1998–99 2,480 
			 1999–2000 2,194 
			 2000–01 1,830 
			 20001–02 1,701 
			 2002–03 2,157 
			 2003–04 3,939 
			 2004–05 5,197 
			 2005-October 2005 3,165 
		
	
	Figures for the number of cases involving claims over £1,500 and for the number of referrals made specifically in relation to tax credits before 2005–06 could be provided only at disproportionate cost. In the period 1 April to 30 September 2005, Criminal Investigations received 1,286 referrals relating to tax credits.

Tax Credits

David Laws: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what estimate he has made of the cost to his Department had the tax credit disregard been set at (a) £3,000, (b) £3,500 and (c) £5,000 in 2003–04.

Dawn Primarolo: The cost of different levels of income disregard depends on a number of factors, including the behaviour of tax credits claimants. Varying the disregard is likely to affect the reporting of changes in incomes by claimants, which would affect the Exchequer cost of tax credits. It is therefore not possible to produce a robust estimate of changes in the disregard in 2003–04.

Tax Credits

David Laws: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether in every case where a tax credit overpayment has been disputed and then written off since June 2005, the overpayment already recovered was to be returned to the claimant; in how many cases where overpayments were written off the amount already recovered has not been reimbursed; and what estimate he has made of the average amount not reimbursed.

Dawn Primarolo: This information is not available. I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave the hon. Member for Tunbridge Wells (Mr. Clark) on 8 November 2005, Official Report, column 332W.

Tax Credits

Anne Milton: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much was spent on advertising (a) on television and (b) in printed media for HM Revenue and Customs tax credit campaigns in the last 12 months.

Dawn Primarolo: Advertising expenditure on tax credits for the 2004–05 tax year was as follows:
	£2.3 million on TV advertising
	£1.5 million on press advertising

Tax Credits

Paul Goodman: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what request changes have been made by HM Revenue and Customs to companies responsible for the IT systems which administer the tax credit system in each year for which information is available.

Dawn Primarolo: The information is not available in the form requested.

Tax Receipts

Mark Todd: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether data relating to tax receipts is available broken down by category of economic activity.

Dawn Primarolo: Data on tax receipts are published annually in the National Accounts Blue Book by the Office for National Statistics (http://www.statistics.gov.uk/statbase/Produrt.asp?vlnk=l143&More=N). Table 11.1 shows taxes paid by UK residents to general Government and the European Union and The Supply and Use Tables" (Table 2.1) show taxes less subsidies on production by industry group. Monthly figures for central Government taxes on production, taxes on income and wealth, and other taxes are shown in the Public Sector Finances release (http://www.statistics.gov.uk/StatBase/Product.asp?vlnk=805&Pos= &ColRank=l&Rank=422).

Teenage Pregnancies

Adam Holloway: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many teenage pregnancies there were in the Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley primary care trust area in each year since 1997.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Karen Dunnell, dated 19 January 2006
	As National Statistician, I have been asked to reply to your recent question asking how many teenage pregnancies there were in the Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley Primary Care Trust (PCT) in each year since 1997. (43264)
	Teenage conception figures by PCT are not available where there is risk of disclosure of information about individuals due to differences in boundaries between PCT and local authorities.
	Information on conceptions is routinely published by local authorities and strategic health authorities. The most recent year for which estimates are available is 2003 Figures for the Dartford, Gravesham and Sevenoaks local authorities are given in the table.
	
		Number of teenage conceptions: Dartford, Gravesham and Sevenoaks local authorities, 1997 to 2003
		
			 Area of usual residence 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 
		
		
			 Dartford 54 56 60 72 69 76 75 
			 Gravesham 74 76 67 92 66 63 74 
			 Sevenoaks 57 65 53 50 41 48 50

Wage Inflation

Caroline Spelman: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the average increase in wage inflation was in each year since 1996–97.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Karen Dunnell, dated 19 January 2006
	As National Statistician, I have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question to ask what the average increase in wage inflation was in each year since 1996–97. (42843)
	Growth in earnings is estimated from the Annual Earnings Index (AEI) which is the National Statistic for short term economic earnings indicators. The AEI figures for Great Britain are collected and published monthly. The AEI does not collect data on the self employed and people who do unpaid work.
	I attach a table showing the growth in average earnings in Great Britain from 1996 to 2004. The annual growth figure for 2005 will not be available until 15 February 2006 when the December 2005 figures are published.
	The monthly changes to the index and growth are published on the National Statistics website at: http://www.statistics.gov.uk/statbase/tsdtablesl.asp?vlnk=emp. Calendar year comparisons are available on request.
	The AEI is the most comprehensive source of earnings information in Great Britain. Each month it surveys 8600 companies, covering 12 million employees.
	
		Annual Earnings Index -- Including bonuses, excluding arrears
		
			 2000=100 Index Annual growth percentage 
		
		
			 1996 83.3 3.6 
			 1997 86.8 4.3 
			 1998 91.3 5.1 
			 1999 95.7 4.8 
			 2000 100.0 4.5 
			 2001 104.5 4.5 
			 2002 108.2 3.6 
			 2003 111.9 3.5 
			 2004 116.7 4.3 
		
	
	Note:
	All figures based upon the calendar year.
	Source:
	Annual Earnings Index, Office for National Statistics.

Unemployment

Bob Spink: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what proportion of the registered unemployed in Castle Point were aged (a) 25 years and under, (b) 26 to 35 years, (c) 36 to 45 years, (d) 46 to 55 years and (e) over 55 years in the last year for which figures are available.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Karen Dunnell, dated 19 January 2006
	As National Statistician, I have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about unemployment in Castle Point. (42890)
	The Office for National Statistics (ONS) compiles unemployment statistics for small areas from the Annual Population Survey following International Labour Organisation definitions. Because of the small number of people in the sample, it is not possible to provide figures for all of the age groups specified in the question. However, Table 1 attached, shows the percentage of unemployed, by age groups for which information is available, who were resident in the Castle Point Parliamentary Constituency for the 12 month period ending in March 2005. These estimates, as with any from sample surveys, are subject to a margin of uncertainty.
	ONS also compiles statistics for local areas of people claiming Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA). Table 2, attached, and shows the average percentage of JSA claimants, by age bands, resident in the Castle Point constituency for the 12 months ending November 2005.
	
		
			 Age band Percentage 
		
		
			 25 and under 49 
			 Over 25 51 
			 Base—total unemployed 1,300 
		
	
	Source:
	Annual Population Survey
	
		Table 2: Percentage of claimants of jobseekers allowance by age bands resident in the Castle Point constituency; 12 month average for December 2004 to November 2005
		
			 Age band Percentage 
		
		
			 25 and under 35 
			 26 to 35 20 
			 36 to 45 18 
			 46 to 55 18 
			 Over 55 10 
			 Base—total JSA claimants 705 
		
	
	Source:
	Jobcentre Plus Administrative system

Unemployment

Tim Farron: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the rate of (a) unemployment, (b) long-term unemployment and (c) youth unemployment was inWestmorland and Lonsdale in each year since 1997; and how many individuals this represented in each case.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the national statistician who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Karen Dunnell, dated 19 January 2006
	As National Statistician, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question about unemployment, (43385)
	The Office for National Statistics (ONS) compiles statistics of unemployment for local areas from the annual local area Labour Force Survey following International Labour Organisation definitions.
	Table 1 shows unemployment rates for people resident in the Westmorland and Lonsdale Parliamentary Constituency. The table covers the 12 month periods ending in February each year from 1998 to 2004. These estimates, as with any from sample surveys, are subject to sampling variability. Changes in the estimates from year to year should be treated with particular caution. Sample sizes in this Constituency are too small to produce a time series of estimates for either long-term or youth unemployment.
	ONS also compiles statistics for local areas of people claiming Jobseeker's Allowance (ISA). Table 2 shows the annual average number and proportion of resident working age population of all JSA claimants, those claiming for over 12 months and those aged 18 to 24, resident in the Westmorland and Lonsdale constituency since 1997.
	
		Table 1: Unemployed persons resident in the Westmorland and Lonsdale constituency
		
			  All 
			 12 months ending February: Level (Thousand) Rate (Percentage) 
		
		
			 1998 (22)— (22)— 
			 1999 1 3 
			 2000 1 3 
			 2001 2 5 
			 2002 2 5 
			 2003 (22)— (22)— 
			 2004 2 4 
		
	
	(22)Estimate not available, sample size less than three could be disclosive.
	Source:
	Annual local area Labour Force Survey.
	
		Table 2: JSA claimants resident in the Westmorland and Lonsdale constituency
		
			  All Long-term  (claiming over 12 months) Youth (aged 18 to 24)(23) 
			 Annual averages Level Proportion(24) (Percentage) Level Proportion(24) (Percentage) Level Proportion(24) (Percentage) 
		
		
			 1997 957 1.9 165 n/a 245 n/a 
			 1998 753 1.5 90 n/a 190 n/a 
			 1999 679 1.3 75 n/a 155 n/a 
			 2000 569 1.1 55 n/a 130 n/a 
			 2001 463 0.9 20 n/a 115 n/a 
			 2002 372 0.7 15 n/a 90 n/a 
			 2003 382 0.8 20 n/a 85 n/a 
			 2004 328 0.6 15 n/a 70 n/a 
			 2005 296 0.6 15 n/a 75 n/a 
		
	
	n/a=Not available.
	(23)Computerised claims only. Data rounded to nearest 5 for disclosure control.
	(24)Proportion of the resident working age population. Denominators based on 2001 census data adjusted to be consistent with 2001 mid-year population estimates for local authorities.
	Source:
	Jobcentre Plus Administrative system.

Valuation Office Agency

Caroline Spelman: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many requests have been made to the Valuation Office Agency under the Freedom of Information Act since the Act's commencement.

Dawn Primarolo: As at 30 September 2005, the date at which the last full set of statistics was collated by the Department for Constitutional Affairs, the Valuation Office Agency had received 175 requests under the Freedom of Information Act.

Valuation Office Agency

Caroline Spelman: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will place in the Library copies of the (a) software manual, (b) external guidance and (c) internal guidance for the digital mapping software purchased by the Valuation Office Agency from the company Tenet.

Dawn Primarolo: I refer the hon. Lady to the answer she received from the Minister of State (Local Government) on 9 January 2006, Official Report, column 250W.

Valuation Office Agency

Caroline Spelman: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much the Valuation Office Agency spent on (a) foreign travel, (b) subsistence and (c) hospitality in each year since 1997–98.

Dawn Primarolo: The Valuation Office Agency spent the following amounts on foreign travel, subsistence and hospitality in the years 2000–01 to 2004–05.
	
		£000
		
			  Foreign Travel Subsistence Hospitality 
		
		
			 2000–01 n/a 1,050 5 
			 2001–02 n/a 1,041 4 
			 2002–03 3 1,040 7 
			 2003–04 20 1,164 6 
			 2004–05 4 1,255 6 
		
	
	Records prior to 2000–01 are not readily available.

MINISTER FOR WOMEN

Private Members' Clubs

Sally Keeble: To ask the Minister for Women and Equality if she will introduce measures to end discrimination against women in private members' clubs.

Meg Munn: Discrimination in mixed-sex private members' clubs will be considered under the Government's current review of discrimination legislation. This review will lead to a Single Equality Bill, which the Government have made a manifesto commitment to introduce in the lifetime of this Parliament.

Licensing Act (Domestic Violence)

Andrew Turner: To ask the Minister for Women and Equality whether she has discussed with her Home Office and Department for Culture, Media and Sport colleagues the impact on domestic violence of the Licensing Act 2003.

Meg Munn: My right hon. Friend the Minister for Women has discussed this issue with Home Office colleagues in the context of the Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy. She does not anticipate an increase in domestic violence as a direct result of the Act, though it is too early for an impact assessment. Indeed its extra powers and review mechanisms may reduce excessive drinking outside the home.

Gender Pay Gap

Sadiq Khan: To ask the Minister for Women and Equality what steps the Government are taking to address the gender pay gap.

Meg Munn: Government have taken various measures to tackle the gender pay gap, including the creation of the Women and Work Commission, and Ilook forward to their final report within the next few weeks containing their findings and recommendations to close the gender pay gap.
	We have also introduced and raised the national minimum wage, which has helped increase the pay of women. In October we increased the national minimum wage to £5.05. Around 70 per cent. of the beneficiaries of the uprating of the national minimum wage in October 2004 were women.
	Other measures we have introduced to reduce the gender pay gap include the DTI Strategic Partnership initiative supporting a team of Equal Pay Panel of Experts, led by the TUC. The experts will offer free advice/guidance sessions to organisations looking to investigate or undertake an equal pay review. This initiative builds on the TUC Equal Pay project, which has trained over 400 union equal pay reps.

Breastfeeding

Jo Swinson: To ask the Minister for Women and Equality if she will make a statement on Government policy on breastfeeding in public places.

Meg Munn: Breastfeeding is the best form of nutrition for infants and we are aware of the important contribution it can make to the health of mothers and infants. The Government are collecting data through the National Infant Feeding Survey 2005 on women's experiences of breastfeeding in public.

Equality

Dawn Butler: To ask the Minister for Women and Equality what steps the Government are taking to ensure that (a) queries and (b) representations on all four strands of equality are dealt with consistently; and, where different procedures apply, what the reasons are for such differences.

Meg Munn: The Government are committed to the advancement of equality for all and to encouraging a society where people have an equal chance to achieve their potential. The CEHR will bring a more coherent approach to the provision of advice and information across all areas of discrimination, so that for the first time they are delivered from one place.
	The Government attach great importance to the communities the CEHR serves being effectively represented in its governance and operations. The provisions in the Equality Bill make clear that the CEHR Board must include members who have knowledge and experience in the fields of discrimination the CEHR will address, as well as human rights, and provides mechanisms such as committees to facilitate further representation and involvement. Where necessary, these reflect the specific circumstances of the groups concerned, for example the CEHR's Disability Committee provides continuity with the requirements in the Disability Rights Commission Act that ensure that disabled people steer the DRC's work.

Women MPs

Julie Morgan: To ask the Minister for Women and Equality what steps the Government are taking to increase the number of women in Parliament.

Meg Munn: In 2002 we introduced the Sex Discrimination (Election Candidates) Act allowing positive measures towards women's increased participation. 20 per cent. of MPs are now women compared with 9 per cent. before 1997.
	We are committed to working towards gender equality throughout society, including in political life, and continue to monitor progress in this area.

TRADE AND INDUSTRY

Workplace Rights

John MacDougall: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what changes to workplace rights since 1997 will be in place by 2007.

Gerry Sutcliffe: In addition to creating record levels of employment, we have also introduced a safety net of protections for the most vulnerable employees. The most significant include, paid holidays, measures to support working parents, age discrimination regulations and the national minimum wage.
	In addition my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry has today announced theappointment of Paul Myners as Chair at the Low Pay Commission, who is replacing Lord Turner of Ecchinswell.
	Regulation has its place, but of key importance is to encourage cultural change to make working smarter, not harder. We will continue to build on our achievements so that people at work can develop their skills and have the opportunity to maximise their potential, and will ensure that flexibility works for both employees and businesses.

Gas Supply/Storage

Adrian Bailey: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what measures are in place to increase capacity for gas supply and storage in the UK.

Malcolm Wicks: The market based framework in place has already brought forward investment in major new gas storage and import infrastructure. In addition, last Thursday the Secretary of State announced the introduction of a new legal regime which covers new offshore gas storage and offshore gas unloading. This will enable the development of new offshore gas storage facilities.

Company Law Reform Bill

Sarah McCarthy-Fry: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what progress has been made on drafting the Company Law Reform Bill; and if he will make a statement.

Alun Michael: The Company Law Reform Bill was introduced in the House of Lords on 1 November 2005. It received its Second Reading in that House on 11 January 2006.

Footwear Manufacturing (Northamptonshire)

Philip Hollobone: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make an economic assessment of the Northamptonshire footwear manufacturing industry.

Alun Michael: We have no plans to make a separateeconomic assessment of the Northamptonshire footwear sector. The hon. Member raised this issue in the House on 21 July 2005 when he was invited to write to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry setting out the case for such an assessment.

Employment Tribunal Awards

James McGovern: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps his Department is taking to ensure that employment tribunal awards are paid.

Gerry Sutcliffe: The enforcement of awards is through the county courts and is the responsibility of the Department for Constitutional Affairs. DTI fully supports and has contributed to the provisions of the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Bill that will streamline the process. Within the existing legal framework, the Employment Tribunal Service and the Courts Service are seeking ways to enhance enforcement.

Energy Supply

Greg Hands: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the current and future diversity of the UK's energy supply.

Malcolm Wicks: With declining reserves of oil and gas in the North sea, and as we become a net importer, Britain faces a new energy challenge. Diversity of energy supply is one of a number of complex issues that must be considered in the Energy Review. Our consultation document will be published on Monday.

UK Manufacturing

David Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he is taking to promote manufacturing industry in the UK.

Alun Michael: Government are promoting the development of a successful dynamic manufacturing sector working in partnership with industry. Through the Manufacturing Strategy we are helping more and more companies move to high added value production through the application of science and innovation, world class practice and skills development.

Premium Rate Services

Jo Swinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry on what date the extension of Ofcom's premium rate services regulations will be implemented by the Independent Committee for the Supervision of Standards of Telephone Information Services; and if he will make a statement.

Alun Michael: Many of the most important recommendations from the Ofcom report into premium rate service regulation have already been implemented. For example, from 15 September network operators have been obliged to withhold payments to services providers for 30 days after a call has been made thus enabling repayment or the payment of penalties to be guarantees. This is a powerful discouragement to fraudulent or exploitative activities. Other measures have also been implemented by DTI. For instance we have increased the maximum penalty for breaching the ICSTIS code of practice from £100,000 to £250,000. I expect the remaining recommendations to be implemented in the spring. It is important to get these regulatory changes right for the future and we have to meet requirements for extensive consultation of the industry and the public.

British Nuclear Fuels (Westinghouse)

Michael Jack: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the status of the proposed sale of British Nuclear Fuels Ltd.'s Westinghouse interest.

Malcolm Wicks: BNFL is in discussion with parties interested in acquiring the Westinghouse business. Discussions between the parties are subject to confidentiality agreements. The company will make an announcement in the event that these discussions lead to a sale of the business.

Artists' Resale Right

Chris Bryant: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many British artists he expects will benefit from the artists' resale right.

Alan Johnson: holding answer 19 December 2005
	Based on figures from the Art Sales Index for the period March 2003 to February 2004, the most recent we have available, 1,259 works by living British artists were sold at auction which would have attracted a royalty payment. The auction houses represent approximately half of the UK art market and a similar number of sales is expected to have taken place through dealers.

Biomass (Funding)

Peter Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much funding has been made available to develop markets for biomass in (a) heat, (b) combined heat and power and (c) power generation in each of the last 10 years.

Malcolm Wicks: Market development for biomass is supported in a variety of ways, not all of which involve direct funding e.g. bioenergy projects have been developed on the basis of the Non-Fossil Fuel Obligation and the Renewables Obligation.
	The most relevant direct funding has been through projects under the DTI New and Renewable Energy [Research and Development] and the DTI/Big Lottery Fund Bioenergy Capital Grants Scheme. The following table gives the combined spend directly addressing the requested categories to December 2005.
	
		New and Renewable Energy / Capital Grants Scheme -- £
		
			  CHP Heat Power Total 
		
		
			 All years 4,330,485 1,699,505 5,666,471 11,696,462 
			 1995–96 230,852 70,273 179,264 480,389 
			 1996–97 223,211 127,885 365,556 716,652 
			 1997–98 176,162 254,989 232,509 663,659 
			 1998–99 196,264 193,568 115,330 505,163 
			 1999–2000 139,831 147,174 414,073 701,078 
			 2000–01 235,995 164,947 228,088 629,030 
			 2001–02 124,377 107,556 460,795 692,728 
			 2002–03 303,979 23,598 353,318 680,895 
			 2003–04 582,576 99,618 332,694 1,014,888 
			 2004–05 1,862,276 293,204 151,640 2,307,120 
			 2005–06 254,964 216,691 3,058,205 3,529,861 
		
	
	There has also been spend on biomass heat under the DTFs Clear Skies Initiative, which has been running since 2003. The total spend since the programme began is £1,499,390 [breakdown into individual years could have been achieved only at disproportionate cost.]
	Additionally there has been funding of £60,000 during year 2004–05 from Defra's Community Energy Programme on biomass/CHP schemes. This programme started in year 2001–02, but there was no spend on biomass CHP before 2004–05.
	The above figures do not include any support from the Devolved Administrations or the Regional Development Agencies—which could have been reported only at disproportionate cost.

Cape Town Treaty

Peter Luff: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the effects of the Cape Town treaty on the purchase of more efficient and less environmentally damaging new aircraft in developing nations.

Alun Michael: The convention and protocol may help to facilitate the financing of new aircraft in developing nations which ratify these instruments but no such specific assessment has been made. It is for each lending institution to make its own assessment of the likely impact of the convention and protocol in arriving at any decision to finance new aircraft.

Cape Town Treaty

Peter Luff: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether any UK companies have registered with the registry that will be overseeing the operation of the Cape Town treaty.

Alun Michael: No registrations can be made in the registry established under the convention and protocol until it comes into operation on 1 March 2006.

Cape Town Treaty

Peter Luff: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the economic effects of the Cape Town treaty.

Alun Michael: We will produce a regulatory impact assessment prior to taking forward ratification of the convention and protocol. In 1998 an economic impact assessment was commissioned by the Aviation Working Group (set up as an ad hoc industry group to contribute to the development of the convention) and IATA on the potential economic benefits of the proposed convention and protocol. The study was prepared under the auspices of the INSEAD Business School and the New York University Salomon Center.

Coal-fired Power

Jim Sheridan: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps the Department plans to take to promote the sale of carbon capture equipment for coal-fired power stations to other countries in 2006.

Malcolm Wicks: The Department presently has no plans at present to promote the sale of Carbon Capture equipment for coal-fired power stations to other countries. Currently Carbon Capture and Storage technologies are not yet commercially viable and therefore not in a position to be sold for export abroad. However, we are working with China and the United States of America on R&D into Carbon Capture and Storage technologies. In addition with DEFRA we are supporting a £3.5 million feasibility study to assess the possibility of Carbon Capture and Storage in China as part of a EU project.

CREST Scheme

Edward Davey: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many pupils have taken part in the British Association's CREST scheme for gifted and talented young people, broken down by local education authority; what other national schemes for gifted and talented young people are supported by his Department; and if he will make a statement.

Barry Gardiner: The CREST scheme is delivered through SETNET's sub regional network of SETPOINTS. The number of awards presented since the inception of the scheme in 2001 has been broken down by region and is presented in the following table.
	
		
			 Region Number of awards 
		
		
			 North-West 17,016 
			 North-East 2,932 
			 Yorkshire and Humber 921 
			 Greater Merseyside 25,954 
			 West midlands 18,726 
			 East Midlands 5,408 
			 Eastern 7,833 
			 London 3,246 
			 South East 5,144 
			 South West 8,289 
			 Wales 8,722 
			 Scotland 2,869 
			 Northern Ireland 10,433 
			 Total 117,493 
		
	
	Information on uptake of the BA CREST awards by local education authority is not collected. The CREST scheme is not specifically targeted at gifted and talented young people, although many gifted and talented youngpeople participate. There are a number of other schemes that fit into this category delivered through organisations supported by core funding from the Department.
	The Royal Academy of Engineering runs the Best programme, which includes four schemes which provide personalized learning opportunities for gifted and talented students: the Engineering Education Scheme, Headstart, Year in Industry and the Engineering Leadership Award. In addition to these schemes the Academy also collaborates with the National Academy for Gifted and Talented Youth.
	The Research Councils support BA CREST and Nuffield Science Bursaries. Nuffield Science Bursaries give post-16 students science based projects lasting 4 to 6 weeks during the summer holidays. These projects are carried out in universities, industry and research institutions and students work alongside researchers.
	SETNET delivers 32 key national schemes, including those already discussed, comprehensive details are available on their website at http://www.setnet.org.uk/cgi-bin/go.pl/resources/index.html

Departmental Estate

Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what (a) land and (b) property is owned by his Department in Castle Point.

Alan Johnson: The DTI administrative estate does notinclude any land or property in the Castle Point constituency.

Energy Imports

Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what percentage of the UK's energy requirements for 2004–05 came from (a) Germany and (b) Poland; and what the cost of energy imported from each country was.

Malcolm Wicks: Imports of energy products from Germany and Poland during the calendar year 2004 are shown in the following table. It is possible that some of the energy products were produced outside Germany and Poland, with German or Polish companies acting as intermediaries.
	
		
			  Thousand tonnes £ million 
			  Quantity imported from Germany Quantity imported from Poland Value of energy imported from Germany Value of energy imported from Poland 
		
		
			 Steam coal 8 1,142 0.2 41.0 
			 Anthracite 5 3 0.3 0.2 
			 Other solid fuel 39 8 5.1 1.3 
			 Petroleum products 1,288 80 270.8 15.4 
		
	
	Overall, energy imports from Germany and Poland each accounted for less than one per cent. of UK primary energy demand.

EU Budget

Iain Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the impact of the recent EU budget settlement for the period 2007 to 2013 for future EU funding in Durham and Tees Valley.

Alun Michael: I set out the impact of the EU budget settlement for the UK's future Structural Funds allocations in my written statement to Parliament on 20 December 2005. Durham and Tees Valley will be eligible to receive funding under the competitiveness objective during the 2007 to 2013 financial perspective. However, the methodology for allocating competitiveness funding to individual regions has still to be decided. This will form part of the consultation on the UK's National Strategic Reference Framework for future Structural Funds spending, which the Government plan to take forward over the coming months.

EU Emissions Trading Scheme

Colin Challen: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the effect of the implementation of the UK National Allocation Plan for Phase 1 of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme on the profitability of the UK power generation sector.

Malcolm Wicks: The Department commissioned independent research to assess the potential impact of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme on the UK power generation sector: 'Implications of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme for the UK Power Generation Sector' in July 2005. A report by IPA Energy Consulting was published in January 2005 on the DTI website. This follows an earlier report commissioned from Ilex Consulting to assess the potential impact of the scheme, 'Implications of the EU ETS for the UK Power Sector', published in September 2003. Both reports have considered different scenarios for the operation of the scheme and the potential impact on profitability among other issues. Phase I started in January 2005 running to December 2007 and it is therefore too early to assess the actual impact of the phase on the generation sector. Copies of the reports are available on the DTI website—http://www.dti.gov.uk/energy/sepn/ipa_euets_report.pdf (IPA) and http://www.dti.gov.uk/energy/sepn/ilex_report.pdf(Ilex)

EU Toys Directive

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he made of the EU Directive on the safety of toys; and if he will include consideration of hybrid products that increase the risk of children choking in the assessment.

Gerry Sutcliffe: The Toys Directive, implemented in the UK in the Toys (Safety) Regulations 1995, has been very effective in ensuring that toys sold in the UK comply with essential safety requirements.
	The Toys Directive is currently being revised and DTI officials are actively involved in the discussions with European colleagues. The issue of safety of toys in food is a live issue in these discussions.

Felindre-Tirley Gas Pipeline

Adam Price: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry which alternative routes were explored before the 1km corridor for the liquid gas pipeline proposed by the National Grid from Felindre to Tirley was chosen; on what basis these alternative routes were not chosen; what consultation there has been between National Grid, Carmarthen county council and the general public on the pipeline; and whether a compulsory purchase order will be granted for the land owned by those who refuse to accept the terms offered by the National Grid.

Malcolm Wicks: National Grid have not applied for consent to lay a pipeline from Filindre to Tirley. If and when they do then an explanation of the alternative routes considered, the reasons for the preferred route and justification for the discounting of others will have to be given. Any such application will be advertised and an opportunity given for representations to be made to the Secretary of State.
	In view of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State's quasi-judicial responsibilities for confirming compulsory purchase orders, I cannot give an indication as to whether or not such an order would be confirmed.

Fuel Poverty

Shahid Malik: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many households in (a) Dewsbury constituency and (b) the Yorkshire and Humber region were in fuel poverty in each of the last 10 years.

Malcolm Wicks: Figures for the number of households in fuel poverty in England are produced from analysis of the English House Condition Survey. The most recent data on the level of fuel poverty in England corresponds to 2003 and was published in July 2005 in the UK Fuel Poverty Strategy Third Annual Progress Report. This showed that the number of fuel poor households in England in 2003 was around 1.2 million.
	Prior to 2003, however, this survey was conducted on a five-yearly basis. Therefore, the number of households in fuel poverty in England is not available for all of the last 10 years. Regional figures for England are available from the English House Condition Survey for 1996, 2001 and 2003, when the respective figures for England were 5.1 million, 1.7 million and 1.2 million.
	
		Government office region
		
			 Yorkshire and the Humber Number of households in fuel poverty 
		
		
			 1996 678,000 
			 2001 238,000 
			 2003 180,000 
		
	
	It is not possible to break down figures to constituency level.

Fuel Poverty

Brian Jenkins: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many households in (a) Tamworth constituency and (b) Staffordshire were in fuel poverty in each of the last 10 years.

Malcolm Wicks: Figures for the number of households in fuel poverty in England are produced from analysis of the English House Condition Survey. The most recent data on the level of fuel poverty in England corresponds to 2003 and was published in July 2005 in the UK Fuel Poverty Strategy Third Annual Progress report. This showed that the number of fuel poor households in England in 2003 was around 1.2 million.
	Prior to 2003, however, this survey was conducted on a five-yearly basis. Therefore, the number of households in fuel poverty in England is not available for all of the last 10 years. Regional figures for England are available from the English House Condition Survey for 1996, 2001 and 2003, when the respective figures for England were 5.1 million, 1.7 million and 1.2 million.
	
		Number of households in fuel poverty
		
			  Government office region—West Midlands 
		
		
			 1996 660,000 
			 2001 228,000 
			 2003 146,000 
		
	
	It is not possible to break down figures to constituency or county level.

Gas Prices

John Hemming: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the economic impact of the level of gas prices in the UK since November 2005.

Malcolm Wicks: The Government takes the recent increases in gas prices very seriously, and particularly their impact on the competitiveness of UK industry. We understand that this creates tough trading conditions, especially for energy intensive users, and we are aware of a few companies having reduced production in response to the very high prices since November. This will, of course, have a negative impact on UK industrial output, but in terms of overall GDP this will be relatively minor.
	I have visited a number of major industrial gas users and am continuing to meet with companies, business representatives and gas suppliers to discuss gas prices and security of supply. Energywatch and DTI held a seminar with smaller gas users and the public sector on 30 November 2005 to discuss energy purchasing strategies. We are also undertaking some research into the capability of UK industry to reduce their gas demand.
	The impact on UK businesses of increases in gas prices will depend on a variety of factors, including how much gas a particular company uses, the degree of their exposure to spot and forward prices and the duration of high prices. It will also be affected by the energy prices paid by their competitors. A further sector-specific issue is whether they are in a competitive market where international trade sets the price or in a sector where prices are determined more locally and rising energy costs could be passed
	Provisional data for October 2005 shows that UK retail gas prices for small, medium and large industrial users were below the EU15 median. However, individual companies will have agreed commercially confidential contract terms and prices that might differ from these averages. I am also aware, from my industry visits and meetings, that, there is some evidence that gas prices in the UK for some of our very large industrial users is above those on the continent, and I recognise the risk that this presents to UK competitiveness. Officials are working closely with industry and OFGEM, with a view to help, wherever possible, to mitigate the situation and reduce these impacts.

Gas Prices

John Hemming: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the environmental impact of energy companies choosing to use their coal fired power stations rather than their gas fired power stations because of high gas prices.

Malcolm Wicks: Any increase in overall annual CO 2 emissions from coal fired power stations running at a higher rate than usual will need to be covered by allowances under the EU Emissions Trading Scheme. There is a fixed number of allowances which are allocated directly to installations, such as power stations. If an installation wants to increase emissions above its allowance, it will need to buy extra allowances from other holders of allowances who are able to abate emissions and therefore have allowances to sell. Allowances can also be bought through Kyoto protocol mechanisms whereby credits can be bought for emissions reductions in mainly developing countries. The Emissions Trading Scheme therefore works to ensure that those responsible for increased CO 2 emissions on an annual basis have to pay for offsetting reductions in emissions elsewhere.
	Other environmental impacts from coal fired electricity generation are subject to controls which are monitored and enforced by the Environment Agency. These controls are designed to offer sufficient flexibility to respond to changing commercial circumstances without compromising overall environmental objectives.

Gas Supplies Agreement

Madeleine Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the implications for the UK of the recent agreement on gas supplies between Russia and the Ukraine.

Malcolm Wicks: The dispute reinforces the importance of progressing a EU energy policy, as agreed at the EU informal Heads of Government meeting at Hampton Court in October; and of developing bilateral relations with gas exporting countries, to ensure an appropriate framework for importing gas into Great Britain. The current review of energy policy will consider policy options to ensure that the UK is on track to meet the medium and long-term goals in the Energy White Paper, against the background of developments since 2003, including our increasing dependence on imported gas.

Gas Turbines

Howard Stoate: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what research his Department has (a) commissioned and (b) evaluated into the feasibility of running gas turbine engines on renewable biofuel; and if he will make a statement.

Malcolm Wicks: Work was commissioned on the use of gas from the anaerobic digestion of biomass in small gas turbines or micro-turbines, in 2001. The reports can be found on the DTI website under the title DTI/Pub URN 02/1345—Distributed Power Generation Using Biogas Fuelled Micro-turbines Advantica Technologies Limited, January 2002.
	Work has also been supported on the use of gas from the thermal gasification of biomass and waste in micro-turbines and is reported in URN 04/1804 Development of a Micro-Turbine to Run on Gasifier Producer Gas, Biomass Engineering Limited, May 2004. Further work in this area is being supported through Rural Generation Ltd. and Queens University Belfast and should report later this year.
	The DTI is also supporting Talbots Heating, who are using wood combustion to provide the energy to drive a micro-turbine. The latest report here is Bio-mass Fuelled Indirect Fired Micro Turbine, DTI/Pub URN 05/698.
	At Siemens Industrial Gas Turbines in Lincoln, we are supporting work to investigate the use of gas from the pyrolysis and gasification of biomass and wastes in larger gas turbines. This should also be reporting at the end of this year.
	No work has been supported or evaluated on the use of liquid bio-fuels derived from vegetable and animal oils and fats in gas turbines. Industry has shown very little interest in this application. We understand that commercial alternatives are available, using reciprocating engines that are currently generating under the renewables obligation.
	Elsewhere, we understand from the International Energy Agency—of which the UK is a member—that some work is ongoing in Canada on the use of liquids derived from the pyrolysis of wood in gas turbines.

Home Accident Safety Survey

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what arrangements he plans to put in place to replace the Home Accident Safety Survey; and when an announcement is expected to be made.

Gerry Sutcliffe: DTI has no plans to replace the Home Accident Surveillance System.

Hydroelectric Power (Wales)

Jennifer Willott: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry 
	(1)  how much and what proportion of electricity supplied to consumers in Wales was produced from hydroelectric power in each year since 1997; and if he will make a statement;
	(2)  how much and what proportion of electricity supplied to consumers in Wales was produced from (a) renewable energy sources and (b) wind power in each year since 1997; and if he will make a statement.

Malcolm Wicks: The majority of the electricity generated in Wales is supplied to the national grid system that covers England, Wales and (since 2005) Scotland. Since there is a two way movement of electricity between England and Wales using the grid it is not possible to say how much and what proportion of electricity supplied to consumers in Wales is produced from a particular source.
	However, information on generation by country is available and has been published by this Department in Energy Trends". Data for Wales for the years 2001 to 2004 are shown in the following tables. Data are not available before 2001.
	
		GWh
		
			  2001 2002 2003 2004 
		
		
			 Hydro 259 273 201 305 
			 Wind, wave and solar 337 376 378 547 
			 Other renewable sources 113 132 201 192 
			 Total renewables 709 782 780 1,044 
			 Total generation in Wales 28,986 32,067 30,054 35,235 
		
	
	
		Percentage
		
			  2001 2002 2003 2004 
		
		
			 Hydro 0.9 0.9 0.7 0.9 
			 Wind, wave and solar 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.6 
			 Other renewable sources 0.4 0.4 0.7 0.5 
			 Total renewables 2.4 2.4 2.6 3.0 
			 Total generation in Wales 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Knowledge Partnerships

Linda Gilroy: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the interface between universities and small and medium-sized enterprises through knowledge partnerships.

Barry Gardiner: During the course of 2004–05 over £32 million of government grant support was committed to Knowledge Transfer Partnerships to help businesses improve their competitiveness and productivity through the better use of knowledge, technology and skills that reside within UK universities. This was augmented by £53 million from participating firms, 87 per cent. of which were SMEs.
	In addition, the Government have has increased the funding available to Universities under the Higher Education Innovation Fund—which is rising to £110 million per year. This supports a wide range of activities including support for SMEs. Interaction with SMEs is on the rise—for example, the Higher Education Business Interaction survey shows an increase in HE research contracts with SMEs from 3,510 in 2001–02 to 4,148 in 2002–03. My noble Friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Science and Innovation is endeavouring to arrange a convenient time to discuss these matters further with my hon. Friend.

Nuclear Decommissioning

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many participants submitted evidence to the recent Nuclear Decommissioning Authority Draft Strategic Plan.

Malcolm Wicks: The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) has completed its consultation with stakeholders on its first Strategy. In total, the NDA received over 270 sets of comments from a wide variety of organisations and individuals. The NDA has acknowledged all comments and has sought the permission of respondents to publish their comments on the NDA website, and intends to reply to respondents on points raised.

Petroleum Products

Stephen Crabb: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry 
	(1)  how many times the UK has failed to meet its stock obligations of Category 2 petroleum products;
	(2)  what plans he has to replace the Compulsory Stocking Obligation in respect of petroleum products;
	(3)  what representations he has received about the establishment of a privately-funded stockholding agency to replace the Compulsory Stocking Obligation;
	(4)  what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the Compulsory Stocking Obligation in maintaining adequate stocks of petroleum products.

Malcolm Wicks: The UK meets its international obligations to hold stocks of oil for use in the event of disruption of supplies by imposing obligations on companies. We believe that stocks held by companies are, in the event of an emergency, likely to be where they will be needed and capable of being quickly processed into the supply chain. The release of stocks following Hurricane Katrina has shown that the UK system was able to respond well to the disruption which occurred.
	The UK is currently required to hold stock equivalent to 67.5 days annual consumption, both in total and also in each of the three categories into which the total is divided. Obligations are based on sales. Changes in the market, with small companies below the threshold for the obligation entering a supply chain previously dominated by oil companies, meant that between March 2000 and October 2004, although the UK met the total obligation in all but two months, in 41 of the 56 months we did not hold the full level of stocks necessary to meet that part of the obligation relating to category 2 (gas oil, diesel oil, kerosene and kerosene based aviation fuels). In order to return to full compliance with the UK obligations the Government agreed increases in company obligations with industry, and the UK has been fully compliant with the obligations since November 2004.
	We must, however, consider future needs. The UK's obligation will increase as our domestic production of oil declines. We have, therefore, consulted the oil industry and others about a new system which will ensure that the UK can continue to meet its obligations in future. We propose that this system should be based on products from refineries or entering the UK as imports. As we work with the industry to establish the system, we have agreed to explore the long-term potential of establishing an agency to ensure that stocking obligations are met.

Predictive Diallers

John Hemming: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many calls were made from call centres in his Department in 2004–05 using predictive diallers; how many such calls resulted in contact being made with the recipient without a Government agent available to talk to them; and what assessment he has made of the likely impact of Ofcom's policy on silent calls on the use of predictive diallers in departmental call centres.

Alun Michael: The Department of Trade and Industry does not use predictive dialling in any of its call centres.

Regional Development Agencies

Caroline Spelman: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what proportion of Regional Development Agency expenditure is from his Department's funding streams.

Alun Michael: In 2005–06 the Department of Trade and Industry is contributing £590 million (27 per cent.) of the Regional Development Agencies' total funding.

Restriction of Hazardous Waste Substances Directive

Gregory Barker: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when the Government plan to implement the EU restriction of hazardous waste substances directive; and what the EU response has been to the UK's timescale.

Malcolm Wicks: holding answer 18 January 2006
	The Government transposed the requirements of the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS) directive on 7 October 2005, (SI 2005 no. 2748). These regulations will come into force on 1 July this year, in line with the implementation timetable specified within the directive.

Sakhalin Energy Investment Company

Elfyn Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether a copy of the report on revised SEIC (Sakhalin Energy Investment Company) river crossings strategy document has been submitted to his Department.

Ian Pearson: The Export Credits Guarantee Department has received a number of Reports on this subject.
	A copy of the latest river crossings strategy can be found on the Sakhalin Energy website at:
	www.sakhalinenergy.com/documents/doc_lender_eia_sr1.pdf.
	Reports on the river crossings carried out to date can be found at:
	http://www.sakhalinenergy.com/environment/rivers/riv_ main.asp

Small Business Research Initiative

Stephen Byers: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much each Science Council has awarded under the Small Business Research Initiative; what percentage this represents of its overall Research and Development budget; and when further allocations will be made.

Barry Gardiner: holding answer 17 January 2006
	Historically, Research Councils (which are not Government Departments) have voluntarily contributed to SBRI targets but did not collect accurate data during 2003–04 and 2004–05 on the proportion allocated to small businesses.
	Following the announcement in the Budget by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer that the SBRI would now be mandatory, the Research Councils will promote a Small Business Research scheme (similar to, but distinct from, SBRI). They are committed to spending at least 2.5 per cent. of a baseline of £815 million in 2005–06 on university/SME collaborations and directly with SME's.
	Allocations have been, and will continue to be, made throughout the year with Councils advertising funding opportunities on their individual websites.

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive

Richard Ottaway: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he plans to implement the waste electrical and electronic equipment directive.

Malcolm Wicks: On 14 December Government announced review of proposals for implementing the WEEE directive in the UK. This decision reflected the continuing concerns expressed by businesses and stakeholders. It also reflected the Government's commitment to implementing the directive in the UK in a way, which maximises the environmental benefits associated with the directive and minimises the costs to business.
	The review will be undertaken by a cross departmental team and will be followed by a full consultation exercise in the spring before we proceed to transpose the main provisions of the directive into UK law. A new timetable for implementation will not be set until the review is concluded.

Wave Power

Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what research his Department has conducted on the effectiveness of the (a) oscillating water column and (b) superbuoy wave power installations.

Malcolm Wicks: Since 1976 the DTI and its predecessor the Department of Energy has supported the following oscillating water column research projects:
	
		
			  File number  Project title  Contractor  Start date  End date DTI/DEn Spend (£) 
		
		
			 V/01/00004/00/00 Development of Oscillating Water Columns National Engineering Laboratory 1 April 1976 31 March 1978 1,898,645 
			 V/01/00045/00/00 Feasibility Study of the Wells Oscillator Queens University of Belfast 1 January 1979 31 October 1979 50,150 
			 V/04/00147/00/00 Consultancy on Review of NEL Oscillating Water Column Device (OWC) National Engineering Laboratory 22 August 1990 22 July 1991 17,500 
			 V/03/00157/00/00 Wave Tank Testing of Wave Power Collectors Wavegen 1 September 1991 31 May 1992 49,324 
			 V/03/00162/00/00 Costing and Assessment of Art OWC Advanced Mechanics and Engineering Limited 3 August 1992 30 April 1993 23,260 
			 V/02/00174/00/00 Assessment of Art Osprey, Tow-Out and Turbine Wavegen 1 December 1993 31 March 1994 11,850 
			 V/06/00180/00/00 Wave Energy Conversion: Wavegen Project Development Conversion Wavegen 1 February 2000 31 January 2002 34,500 
			 V/06/00183/00/00 Research into the Further Development of the Limpet Shoreline Wave Energy Plant Wavegen 12 June 2000 11 June 2002 231,703 
			 V/06/00190/00/00 Prolongation of Deployment and Monitoring of 'SPERBOY' Wave Energy Device University of Plymouth 1 April 2001 31 March 2002 49,803 
			 V/06/00196/00/00 The Potential for Using Disused Coastal Mineshafts to Exploit Wave Energy Wardell Armstrong International Ltd 1 August 2001 31 July 2004 114,479 
			 V/06/00201/00/00 Near Shore Floating OWC—Prototype Development and Evaluation Wavegen 1 January 2003 31 July 2004 67,820 
			 V/06/00202/00/00 Near Shore Floating OWC—Power Take—Off System Wavegen 1 January 2003 30 June 2005 131,500 
			 V/06/00201/00/00 Near Shore Floating OWC—Prototype Development and Evaluation Wavegen 1 January 2003 31 July 2004 67,820 
			 V/06/00202/00/00 Near Shore Floating OWC—Power Take—Off System Wavegen 1 January 2003 30 June 2005 131,500 
		
	
	DTI is not aware of any wave power device called superbouy". However, DTI has funded a project concerning a device called Sperboy" carried out by the University of Plymouth. This was: V/06/00190/00/00, Prolongation of Deployment and Monitoring of 'SPERBOY' Wave Energy Device. Details of this project are included in the table.

Wind Turbines

John Greenway: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment procedures he has established for applications for grant-aided wind turbine projects to ensure their viability in terms of electricity generation.

Malcolm Wicks: Grants given under the Clear Skies Programme stipulate that approved products are used and that these meet relevant product regulation guidelines. Further details can be obtained from the Clear Skies website at www.clear-skies.org.
	Applications are assessed on their technical merit but it is for the customer to decide whether evidence of performance and payback period is acceptable.
	Many customers install renewable technologies as their individual environmental commitment and although concerned with economic viability this is not their overriding driver when choosing to install a renewable technology.
	Stringent criteria were used to assess all project applications made under the offshore wind capital grants programme.

Wind Turbines

John Greenway: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what criteria in terms of minimum electricity generation are set by his Department for grant-aided wind turbine projects on domestic properties.

Malcolm Wicks: Under the Clear Skies Programme, which offers grants for the installation of domestic wind turbines, the turbines must have a minimum output of 500w at a wind speed of 12m per second.

WTO Meeting (Hong Kong)

Celia Barlow: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what progress has been made following the roadmap for a final agreement to the Doha development round agreed to in Hong Kong; what steps the Government are taking to promote a pro-development agenda within the negotiations; and if he will make a statement.

Ian Pearson: The World Trade Organisation ministerial in December set a deadline of the end of April for modalities, and the end of July for tariff schedules. Strong political will and hard work will be needed to achieve these deadlines. The World Economic Forum in Davos, later this month, and the associated trade meetings, will provide the first opportunity for the major players to define their ambitions for the year and to set out a path to April.
	The UK Government are strongly committed to a pro-development outcome and will continue to push hard for an ambitious development package.

HEALTH

Animal Testing

Susan Kramer: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans there are to carry out an independent assessment of the use of animals in (a) drug safety testing and (b) medical research; and if she will make a statement.

Jane Kennedy: There are no plans for an independent assessment of the use of animals as surrogate humans in either drug safety testing or medicinal research.

Aspartame

Michael Ancram: To ask the Secretary of State for Healthwhat studies have been (a) commissioned and (b) evaluated by her Department on the potential dangers to health from the inclusion of aspartame in foodstuffs; and if she will list make a statement.

Caroline Flint: Aspartame was first reviewed in 1982 by the United Kingdom's Committee on toxicity, consumer products and the environment (COT), a committee of independent experts who advise the Government on the safety of food chemicals. New data on aspartame was reviewed by COT in 1992 and the UK Committee on the carcinogenicity of chemicals in food, consumer products and the environment (COC) in 1996. The COT was satisfied that aspartame was acceptable for use in food and the COC considered there was no link between brain tumors and aspartame.
	In 2001, the European Commission's Scientific Committee on food (SCF) revisited its previous safety assessment of aspartame and concluded that there is no evidence to suggest a need to revise the outcome of their earlier risk assessment.
	In July 2005, the COC considered the findings of a study published by the Ramazzini Institute on the potential carcinogenicity of aspartame. The Committee made initial observations on the data and noted the data will be fully evaluated by the European Food Safety Authority. The Food Standards Agency will consider its position on aspartame in light of the advice from EFSA, when this is received.

Blood Type

Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps her Department takes to ensure that individuals are aware of their blood type.

Caroline Flint: The Department has no plans to ensure that individuals are made aware of their blood type.

Breastfeeding

David Kidney: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what research her Department has (a) commissioned and (b) evaluated on the health effects of food additional to breast milk on babies aged between four and six months.

Caroline Flint: The Department recommends breast milk as the best form of nutrition for infants and recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of an infant's life. If a mother is unable to, or chooses not to breastfeed, a breast milk substitute should be used.
	The Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition stated in 2003 that there is sufficient evidence that exclusive breastfeeding for six months is nutritionally adequate. The Department has not commissioned further research into the health effects of food additional to breast milk between four and six months.

BT10 Contamination Incident

Alan Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the gross cost to public funds was of the recent BT10 contamination incident; and what proportion of costs incurred have been refunded by Syngenta.

Caroline Flint: The Food Standards Agency has not estimated the total cost to public funds associated with the recent BT10 contamination incident. No costs have been refunded by Syngenta.

Community Health Services

Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what arrangements she proposes to put in place for (a) reviewing and (b) managing clinical governance in areas where a variety of providers deliver community health services.

Jane Kennedy: holding answer 16 January 2006
	Primary care trusts (PCTs) are responsible for ensuring that community health services have satisfactory arrangements for clinical governance, whether they are provided by the PCT or commissioned from alternative providers. The Healthcare Commission's annual health check of PCTs will among other things assess how well they are discharging this responsibility.

Cosmetic Surgery

Andrew Lansley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what estimate has been made of the total cost of the website providing information for people considering cosmetic surgery, as announced by her Department's Chief Medical Officer on 22 December 2005, broken down by cost area; and what her latest estimate is of the website's annual running costs.

Jane Kennedy: The Department wishes to promote patient safety by ensuring that people who are considering cosmetic surgery have access to reliable, evidence-based information to help them to make properly informed decisions. The Department therefore launched its information resource for patients considering cosmetic surgery on 22 December 2005.
	The Department spent £5,000 on developing the text of this resource, which is not hosted as a separate website but is held in a dedicated section comprising of 58 pages within the main Departmental website. It is not possible to provide a breakdown of maintenance or development costs by section or page.

Cosmetic Surgery

Si�n James: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will make a statement on the regulation of the cosmetic surgery industry.

Jane Kennedy: Cosmetic surgery is currently regulated as a listed service under the Care Standards Act. Providers must adhere to the provisions of the Private and Voluntary Healthcare Regulations 2001 and are inspected by the Healthcare Commission.
	The Department accepted the recommendations made in the report of the expert group on the Regulation of Cosmetic Surgery, published on 28 January 2005, and plans to regulate to improve patient safety for people receiving non-surgical cosmetic treatments involving botulinum toxin and dermal fillers.

Diamorphine

Ian Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what recent assessment she has made of the availability of diamorphine to the NHS.

Jane Kennedy: The Department is in close contact with both suppliers of diamorphine to the national health service and is continuing to monitor the supply situation carefully. The product is available from both Wockhardt UK and Chiron, but supplies are limited and are likely to remain so for the coming months.

Femara

Andrew Pelling: To ask the Secretary of State for Health which health authorities allow for the prescription of Femara.

Jane Kennedy: Femara (letrozole) is licensed for the treatment of early invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women who have received prior standard adjuvant tamoxifen therapy. Prescribing of Femara is a matter for local decision; there are no national restrictions on the prescribing of this drug.
	The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) is currently undertaking an appraisal of Femara as part of a wider appraisal of hormonal therapies for the treatment of early breast cancer. Information about NICE'S current work programme is available on the NICE'S website at www.nice.org.uk
	In 1999, the Department issued Health Service Circular (HSC) 1999/176, which asks national health service bodies to continue with local arrangements for the managed introduction of new technologies where guidance from NICE has not yet been issued. These arrangements should include an assessment of the available evidence.

Hammersmith Hospitals NHS Trust

Greg Hands: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many staff there were in the Hammersmith Hospitals NHS Trust in each year since its creation.

Jane Kennedy: The latest figures available for national health service staff in the Hammersmith Hospitals NHS Trust by main staff group for the years 1994 to 2004 are shown in the table.
	
		NHS staff in the Hammersmith hospitals NHS Trust by main staff group as at 30 September each specified year -- Headcount
		
			  1994(25) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 
		
		
			 Hammersmith Hospitals NHS Trust total 4,791 4,609 4,209 4,316 4,242 5,322 5,404 5,804 5,805 5,726 6,146 
			 
			 Medical and dental staff 818 743 737 781 524 548 751 812 913 911 953 
			 
			 Non-medical staff total 3,973 3,866 3,472 3,535 3,718 4,774 4,653 4,992 4,892 4,815 5,193 
			 
			 Professionally qualified clinical staff total 2,163 2,265 1,930 1,920 2,079 2,838 2,762 3,017 2,879 2,850 3,048 
			 Qualified nursing, midwifery and health visiting staff 1,658 1,645 1,352 1,337 1,481 2,161 2,095 2,345 2,178 2,034 2,210 
			 Qualified scientific, therapeutic and technical staff total 505 620 578 583 598 677 667 672 701 816 838 
			 Qualified allied health professionals 243 229 205 199 218 222 208 213 213 254 265 
			 Other qualified scientific, therapeutic and technical staff 262 391 373 384 380 455 459 459 488 562 573 
			 
			 Support to clinical staff total n/a 956 983 1,074 1,057 1,382 1,306 1,380 1,343 1,325 1,471 
			 Support to doctors and nurses n/a 765 776 873 882 1,174 1,042 1,123 884 862 979 
			 Support to STT n/a 191 207 201 175 208 264 257 459 463 492 
			 
			 NHS infrastructure support total n/a 644 555 537 577 552 574 583 658 626 658 
			 Central functions n/a 367 308 304 334 313 361 369 403 379 405 
			 Hotel, property and estates staff n/a 163 147 136 122 118 98 94 123 96 94 
			 Managers and senior managers 90 114 100 97 121 121 115 120 132 151 159 
			 
			 Other and unknown total 0 1 4 4 5 2 11 12 12 14 16 
		
	
	n/a=Not available.
	(25)A new system for coding the non-medical workforce was introduced in 1995. 1994 figures are not directly comparable with later years.
	Sources:
	Health and Social Care Information Centre Non-Medical Workforce Census
	Health and Social Care Information Centre Medical and Dental Workforce Census

Herceptin

Owen Paterson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether the Department holds data from the process of licensing Herceptin for late stage breast cancer that could be made available to expedite the licensing of the drug for early stage breast cancer.

Jane Kennedy: When the marketing authorisation holder, Roche, submits a licence variation application for the use of Herceptin in early stage breast cancer, new clinical data will be required to support this indication. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency already holds the quality, pre-clinical and clinical data which it assessed for Herceptin for the indication of late stage breast cancer and these will be available if required. However, it is very unlikely there will be a need to reassess previously submitted data.

Influenza Vaccine

Andrew Lansley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what her estimate is of the take-up of winter influenza vaccine in (a) at-risk groups and (b) all other groups since September.

Caroline Flint: Information on influenza uptake since 2005 in at risk groups and those aged 65 and over is available on the Department's website at:
	www.dh.gov.uk/AboutUs/MinistersAndDepartmetLeaders/ChiefMedicalOfficer/Features/FeaturesArticle/fs/en?CONTENT_ID=4103271chk=2ijGJ5.

Influenza Vaccine

Bill Wiggin: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps she is taking to ensure provision of free influenza vaccinations for people who qualify in areas where supplies of the vaccine have been exhausted.

Caroline Flint: Having been alerted that some general practitioners may be facing a shortage of vaccine, the Department wrote to all primary care trust flu immunisation co-ordinators with details of how to order additional vaccine from our contingency stock, should extra be required by practices in their area. This vaccine has now been distributed to those affected practices. In addition to this, we have also secured an extra 800,000 doses of vaccine which will be delivered this month.

Mental Illness

Diane Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what information the Department collects on the ethnicorigin of patients treated for mental ill-health in Hackney North and Stoke Newington.

Jane Kennedy: The information requested is shown in the table.
	
		Number of discharges from national health service hospitals with a primary psychiatric diagnosis, by ethnic origin, East London and the City Mental Health Trust, 200405
		
			 Ethnic origin Male Female Total 
		
		
			 British (White) 600 490 1,090 
			 Irish (White) 60 40 90 
			 Any other White background 160 140 300 
			 White and Black Caribbean (Mixed) 20 30 50 
			 White and Black African (Mixed) 20 10 30 
			 White and Asian (Mixed) 0 10 10 
			 Any other Mixed background 10 10 10 
			 Indian (Asian or Asian British) 50 40 90 
			 Pakistani (Asian or Asian British) 40 20 70 
			 Bangladeshi (Asian or Asian British) 130 70 190 
			 Any other Asian background 30 20 50 
			 Caribbean (Black or Black British) 150 160 310 
			 African (Black or Black British) 170 130 300 
			 Any other Black background 140 80 220 
			 Chinese 10 10 20 
			 Any other ethnic group 40 20 50 
			 Not stated 100 50 140 
			 Total 1,710 1,310 3,020 
		
	
	Notes:
	1.Figures have not been adjusted for shortfalls in data, that is, the data is ungrossed.
	2.Figures have been rounded to the nearest 10.
	3.Figures may not add up due to rounding.
	Source:
	Hospital Episode Statistics, NHS Health and Social Care Information Centre.

Minibuses

Andrew Pelling: To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether the pilot use in Croydon of minibuses instead of ambulances to ferry inebriated patients to hospital has been considered for introduction in other parts of the country.

Jane Kennedy: The Government is always interested in new initiatives to tackle alcohol harms. We are aware that London Ambulance Service is currently piloting the use of minibuses instead of ambulances to ferry patients involved in minor alcohol-related incidents to hospital. This trial will be reviewed in January and we will be interested to see the outcome of the evaluation.
	This would ultimately be a local matter for health, social care, police and other agencies to determine how best to meet the needs in their area.

Pharmaceuticals (Adverse Reactions)

Susan Kramer: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  how many people have died as a result of adverse reactions to pharmaceuticals in each of the last five years;
	(2)  what estimate she has made of the cost to the NHS of treating people who have suffered adverse reactions to pharmaceuticals in each of the last five years.

Jane Kennedy: Reports of suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are collected by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and Commission for Human Medicines (CHM) through the spontaneous reporting scheme, the yellow card scheme. Approximately 19,000 reports of suspected ADRs are sent to the MHRA/CHM through this scheme each year. It is not possible to estimate from the yellow card scheme the number of people who suffer adverse reactions to medicines since the scheme is associated with an unknown level of under-reporting.
	It is important to note that the submission of a suspected ADR report does not necessarily mean that it was caused by the drug. Many factors have to be taken into account in assessing causal relationships, including temporal association, the possible contribution of concomitant medication and the underlying disease.
	The table shows the total number of suspected ADR reports and ADR reports with a fatal outcome received via the yellow card scheme from 2001 to 2005 inclusive.
	Total number of suspected ADR reports and reports with a fatal outcome received by the MHRA.
	
		
			  Total number of reports Number of reports with a fatal outcome 
		
		
			 2001 21,460 648 
			 2002 17,511 667 
			 2003 18,621 738 
			 2004 18,977 857 
			 2005 19,927 1,013 
		
	
	A study funded by the MHRA and published in the British Medical Journal on 2 July 2004, was conducted in two large hospitals in Merseyside in order to ascertain the current burden of ADRs in the national health service. The study found that of 18,820 patients aged over 16 years admitted to hospital over a six-month period, there were 1,225 admissions judged to be related to an ADR, giving a prevalence of 6.5 per cent. Of these 1,225, the ADR was judged to lead directly to the admission in 80 per cent. of cases. The median bed stay was eight days, accounting for 4 per cent. of the hospital bed capacity. The projected annual cost of such admissions to the NHS was 466 million.

Prescription Charges

Christopher Chope: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will estimate the cost to her Department of including all patients who are terminally ill within the exempt category for the purposes of prescription charges.

Jane Kennedy: holding answer 16 January 2006
	The estimated cost to the Department would be in the region of 2 million per annum in lost prescription charge revenue.

Private Members' Bills

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Health pursuant to the answer of 28 October, Official Report, column 588, on Private Members' Bills, when the information ceased to be collected; and if she will make a statement.

Jane Kennedy: The information requested has never been collected.

Smoking and Blindness

Robert Wilson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans she has to cite the links between smoking and blindness in public health campaigns on smoking cessation.

Caroline Flint: We currently do not have any plans to cite the links between smoking and blindness in our public health campaigns on smoking cessation. We are in the process of developing our future strategy on public health campaigns on smoking. However, it is widely recognised that smoking is linked to many serious and chronic conditions.

PRIME MINISTER

Telephone Tapping

Nigel Evans: To ask the Prime Minister 
	(1)  what decision has been made on requests for the tapping of hon. Members' telephone lines;
	(2)  what representations he has received (a) in favour of and (b) against tapping right hon. and hon. Members' telephone lines;
	(3)  what recent discussions he has had on the tapping of hon. Members' telephone lines;
	(4)  if he will make a statement on the Wilson doctrine on tapping hon. Members' telephones.

Tony Blair: I refer the hon. Members to the written ministerial statement I made on 15 December 2005, Official Report, column 173WS.

DEFENCE

C-130 Hercules

James Gray: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions he is having with manufacturers of the Hercules C130J and K about retrospectively fitting foam flame retardants to the fuel tank.

Adam Ingram: The Hercules Integrated project team is discussing with Marshalls Aerospace the possible fitting of explosive suppressant foam to our C-130 aircraft.

Correspondence

Austin Mitchell: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence 
	(1)  whether the letter of 10 April 2001 from Alan Burnham, acting chief executive of the War Pensions Agency, to Nick Gibbons of the Cabinet Office was seen by the responsible Minister when it was received;
	(2)  whether the advice from the War Pensions Agency on the defensibility of the proposed restriction on compensation to civilian detainees of the Japanese to British citizens with a blood link with the UK was made known to Ministers when the decision was made to restrict payments.

Don Touhig: There is no evidence to suggest that the letter of 10 April 2001 or other advice from the Agency on the defensibility of the birthlink criterion were seen by Ministers at the time; however, Ministers were made aware of the concern, that had been expressed by the chief executive, that substantial numbers of claims would be rejected as a result of adopting the birthlink criterion before this was made public by the Veterans Minister on 11 July 2001.
	The Ministry of Defence's current review of the consistency of eligibility criteria will consider the genesis of the birthlink criterion, in which the agency had been closely involved. It will also consider the nature and handling of the concerns that the agency's chief executive raised in the light of early experience of operating of the birthlink criterion.

Departmental Estate (Castle Point)

Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what (a) land and (b) property is owned by his Department in Castle Point.

Don Touhig: The Ministry of Defence does not own or lease any land or property in the Castle Point constituency. However the following freehold properties are used by the Reserve Forces and Cadets Association which is funded by this Department:
	A property used by the Air Training Corps in Waverley Drive, Thundersley; and
	A Cadet Centre in Runnymede Road, Canvey Island.

Departmental Land

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what (a) land and (b) property his Department owns in the Southend, West constituency.

Don Touhig: The Ministry of Defence does not own or lease any land or property in the Southend, West constituency. However the following properties are used by reserve forces and Cadets Association, which is funded by the Department:
	a property used by the Air Training Corps (leasehold), in Wells Avenue, Southend; and
	an Army Cadet Centre (freehold) property in Eastwood road, Leigh on Sea.

Eurofighter Typhoon

Peter Bone: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to the answer of 11 January 2006, Official Report, column 667W, in what ways the estimated cost of the Eurofighter Typhoon is commercially sensitive.

Adam Ingram: The Eurofighter Typhoon financial figures concerned will remain commercially confidential until their release will no longer be prejudicial to the UK's interests.

Iraq

Mark Todd: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what resources he has made available to the Oxfordshire coroner to ensure that he is able to proceed with inquests into the deaths of UK personnel in Iraq; and if he will make a statement.

Harriet Harman: I have been asked to reply.
	Additional funding has been made available to assist the coroner on an exceptional basis. This has allowed Thames Valley police and Oxfordshire county council to provide additional staff dedicated to the preparation of inquest cases relating to those British personnel and others who have met their deaths in Iraq since March 2003. Further funds will be made available in the next financial year. In all 80,000 will be paid.

ISAF (Afghanistan)

Michael Ancram: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many helicopters are available to NATO in the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan; and to which members of NATO they belong.

Adam Ingram: As of 14 January, there are 15 helicopters dedicated to NATO in Afghanistan. These have been provided to ISAF by Germany, Spain and Italy. Other NATO members, such as the United States, have helicopters in Afghanistan which can be made available to ISAF depending on operational task and priority.

Mercian Regiment

Peter Luff: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether Catterick is being considered as a possible location of the headquarters of the new Mercian Regiment.

Adam Ingram: As the hon. Member will be aware, there is an ongoing study into the future of Infantry Regimental Headquarters (RHQ). It is too early to speculate on what the outcomes of this review will be, but it is anticipated that a final decision will be announced by the spring.

Military Complaints Procedures (Independent Assessor)

Eddie McGrady: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to the answer of 10 October 2005, Official Report, column 1213W, on the Independent Assessor of Military Complaints procedures, on what basis he made his decision that aspects other than thoseinvolving the policing of the 11 and 12 July 2004 North Belfast parades had been examined in sufficient detail.

Adam Ingram: As indicated in my answer of 10 October 2005, Official Report, column 1213W the policing of the North Belfast parades was examined in considerable detail by Keir Starmer QC and Jane Gordon in their special report for the Policing Board published in November 2004. Although this report did concentrate on the policing aspects of the parades, it also included consideration of the Army's support to the PSNI.
	In light of this report, the relevant arrangements were fully reviewed internally following the 2004 marching season by the PSNI and Army, and a comprehensive and progressive training programme was initiated to exercise and develop these arrangements prior to marching season 2005. We are satisfied with the arrangements in place for joint operations with the PSNI and believe that they properly and fully address the concerns raised in the report.

Procurement Contracts

Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many procurement contracts for military equipment with a value greater than 1 million have been agreed with non-UK companies in each year since 2001; what their total value was in each year; how manysuch contracts were won by (a) US companies, (b) non-EU companies and (c) EU companies in each year since 2001, broken down by country; what the value was of each such contract; and if he will make a statement.

Adam Ingram: The information is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

Project Hyperion

Robert Key: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he will announce the conclusions of Project Hyperion; and if he will make a statement.

Adam Ingram: Work to consider the benefits of rationalisation and collocation of the two main Army HQs-HQ land (currently based in Wilton) and HQ Adjutant General (currently based in Upavon)is ongoing. The Army is still determining the possible size and structure of the new HQ organisation and, in parallel, assessing a number of site options. We intend to inform the House about the final size and structure of the new HQ towards the end of this year. It is planned that an announcement about possible future locations will be made by the spring. Full collocationassuming it is finally approvedis unlikely to be completed before 2009.

Research and Development Facility (Colchester)

Bob Russell: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the future of the research and development facility at Caversfield.

Adam Ingram: The current proposal, subject to Trades Union consultation, is to close the Clothing Research and Development facility. Under the proposal, acquisition essential services would be moved into the Defence Clothing Integrated Project Team, also based at Caversfield, and the Research Programme would be competed for by industry and academia.

Research and Development Facility (Colchester)

Bob Russell: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will arrange for an independent review of the operation of the research and development facility following its transfer from Colchester to Caversfield in 2001.

Adam Ingram: The future of the Clothing Research and Development facility has been under constant review both prior to, and since its transfer from Colchester. Independent advisors have already been involved in the review process.

Research and Development Facility (Colchester)

Bob Russell: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many people were made redundant when the research and development facility was transferred from Colchester to Caversfield; how many staff from Colchester transferred to Caversfield; and how many of the transferred staff still work for R and D at Caversfield.

Adam Ingram: The number of people made redundant when the research and development facility was transferred from Colchester to Caversfield was 24.
	The number of Colchester staff that transferred to the DLO Caversfield site was 46.
	Of those that moved from Colchester to Caversfield in March 2001, six remain employed within the Defence Clothing Research and Project Support.

Royal Navy

Michael Ancram: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many (a) surface ships, (b) submarines and (c) auxiliary vessels are (i) available to and (ii) deployable by the Royal Navy; and what the equivalent numbers were in 2000.

Adam Ingram: The vessels available to be deployed by the Royal Navy, which is interpreted as those platforms in Fleet Time having achieved their mandatory collective training, together with the comparative figures for the year 2000, are:
	
		
			  January 
			  2000 2006 
		
		
			 Surface ships 83 62 
			 Submarines 6 5 
			 Auxiliary vessels 22 17

Territorial Army

Mark Lancaster: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence 
	(1)  how many members of the Territorial Army qualified for their annual bounty in each of the last five years;
	(2)  how many members of the Territorial Army have been mobilised more than once in the last five years;
	(3)  how many vacancies there are in the Territorial Army;
	(4)  what percentage of soldiers on operational service are members of the (a) Territorial Army and (b) Regular Army Reserve;
	(5)  what the strength of the Territorial Army is, broken down by (a) officers and (b) other ranks;
	(6)  whether members of the Officer Training Corps (OTC) are included in the current strength of the Territorial Army; and how many members of the OTC there are.

Don Touhig: The number of Territorial Army personnel qualifying for annual bounty in any training year (April-March) is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. However, information on paid bounties (usually for the qualifications gained in the previous year) is shown in the following table.
	
		
			 Period  
		
		
			 April 2004 to March 2005 23,560 
			 April 2003 to March 2004 25,450 
			 April 2002 to March 2003 26,020 
			 April 2001 to March 2002 26,050 
			 April 2000 to March 2001 28,370 
		
	
	Note:
	Totals have been rounded to the nearest 10. Those totals divisible by five have been rounded to the nearest multiple of 20 to prevent systematic bias.
	1,113 members of the Territorial Army (TA) have been called out more than once over the past five years. This figure includes individuals who may have reported for mobilization but subsequently did not mobilize for medical or other reasons. Information on individuals in this category is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.
	The strength (broken down by officers, soldiers and officer training corps (OTC)) and liability of the TA (including OTC) as at 1 December 2005 can be found in the following table:
	
		Strengths of the Territorial Army (TA) as at 1 December 2005
		
			  Territorial Army of which are Officer Training Corps (OTC) of which are mobilised 
		
		
			 Liability 41,610 3,500  
			 Total 37,430 5,750 1,180 
			 
			 Officers 5,450  200 
			 Soldiers 31,980 5,750 980 
			 Surplus/Deficit(26) -4,180 2,250  
		
	
	(26)The surplus/deficit figure is the difference between the liability and the total number of TA personnel.
	Notes:
	1.The data excludes full-time reserve service (FTPS).
	2.Figures exclude 1,070 non-regular permanent staff (NRPS), of which 200 are officers and 880 are soldiers.
	3.The data have been rounded to the nearest 10, numbers ending in '5' have been rounded to the nearest multiple of 20 to prevent systematic bias.
	4.Totals have been rounded separately and therefore may not be equal to the sum of their parts.
	Currently, the TA and Regular Army Reserve form approximately 8 per cent. and 1.4 per cent. respectively of the Regular Army's overall capability deployed on operations (this includes members of the TA and Regular Army Reserve who have been mobilized in support of operations but not necessarily deployed).

Territorial Army

Mark Lancaster: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many members of the Territorial Army who were mobilised and attended RTMC Chilwell subsequently were not deployed (a) on medical grounds, (b) because of failure of individual training directives tests at RTMC and (c) for other reasons in each of the last five years.

Don Touhig: Numbers of TA personnel who attended RTMC Chilwell and did not pass to a receiving unit are set out in the following table; figures for those TA members who reached a receiving unit but were not subsequently deployed are not available.
	
		
			 Reason for 'failure' 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 
		
		
			 Medical and dental failures 20 20 1,040 50 40 
			 Individual revocations upheld n/k n/k 980 210 50 
			 Employer revocations upheld n/k n/k 770 140 40 
			 Post no longer available 30 20 180 0 0 
			 Administrative grounds 0 0 30 0 0 
			 Compassionate grounds 0 0 20 0 0 
			 Non-acceptance by receiving unit 0 0 10 0 0 
			 Volunteer changed mind 0 0 0 0 0 
		
	
	Note:
	The data has been rounded.
	Figures are not held on the number of individuals who attended RTMC but were not mobilised due to failure of individual training directive tests. These individuals would be accepted by the deploying unit and either given the required level of training or returned to a (non-deployed) unit.

WALES

Police Force Restructuring

Peter Bone: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on police force restructuring in Wales.

Peter Hain: Having engaged in discussion with hon. Members, Chief Constables, representatives of police authorities, local authorities, and other stakeholders across the whole of Wales. I see no realistic alternative to a single force for Wales if the objectives set out in the report by Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary are to be achieved.
	However, the Government recognises that there are issues that require further discussion and we are working closely with forces and authorities to help refine their business cases and address any outstanding issues.

Welsh Budget

Cheryl Gillan: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales when he last met the Chancellor of the Exchequer to discuss the Welsh Budget.

Peter Hain: I met the Chancellor and the Chief Secretary on 5 December 2005 and the Chancellor on 7 December 2005, in addition to which I engage with them on matters relevant to the Welsh Budget as and when they arise.

FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS

British Embassy (Madagascar)

Ben Chapman: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the closure of the British embassy in Madagascar.

Ian Pearson: My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary gave a statement to the House on 15 December 2004, Official Report, columns 13738WS covering the closure of several embassies and high commissions, including that of the British embassy in Madagascar. The embassy closed on 15 August 2005.

Burma

Martin Horwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs 
	(1)  pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member for Northampton, South (Mr. Binley) of 2 November 2005, Official Report, column 1081W, on Burma, what actions in the United Nations Security Council he expects will promote reform and positive change in Burma;
	(2)  if he will make it his policy to seek the referral of Myanmar to the United Nations Security Council.

Ian Pearson: We fully support US efforts to get Burma onto the UN Security Council's agenda. We believe that a Security Council discussion of the situation in Burma, including human rights issues, would increase the pressure on the Burmese regime to effect genuine change. It would send a powerful signal to the Burmese leadership that the Security Councilthe primary UN body responsible for international peace and securityis concerned about the human rights situation and is monitoring developments.

Egypt

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will take steps to investigate the allegations of harassment of Sudanese refugees in Cairo by the Egyptian authorities; and if he will make representations on behalf of those killed and injured as a result of the incident in Mostafa Mahmoud Park.

Kim Howells: We have taken a close interest in the situation of Sudanese refugees in Egypt. The British embassy in Cairo has participated in meetings with the Egyptian authorities, as well as the United Nations HighCommissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and has expressed concern at the tragic incident in Mustafa Mahmoud Square on 30 December.
	The Egyptian Foreign Ministry has informed the UNHCR that the Egyptian Prosecutor-General is carrying out an investigation of the incident.

Eritrea-Ethiopia

John Bercow: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the impact of the withdrawal of UN peacekeepers from Eritrea on (a) the peaceful resolution of the Eritrea-Ethiopia border dispute and (b) stability and security in the Horn of Africa.

Ian Pearson: The Eritrean demand for staff of Canadian, European, Russian and US nationalities to be removed from the UN Mission to Ethiopia/Eritrea (UNMEE) has added to the already highly tense situation. The withdrawal of those, plus other staff for their own safety, has in addition to the Eritrean restrictions on UNMEE already in place, further reduced UNMEE's monitoring and conflict prevention capability. This reduced capability and the resulting increase in tension may have a negative impact both on progress towards a peaceful resolution of the Ethiopia-Eritrea border dispute, and on stability and security in the Horn of Africa.
	We supported a Security Council Presidential Statement strongly condemning the Eritrean demand and previous restrictions, and have urged Eritrea to co-operate fully with UNMEE. We also continue to underline to both Ethiopia and Eritrea that there should be no return to war; that the decision of the Boundary Commission is final and binding, and must be implemented; and that they should engage in dialogue on all the issues that divide them.

EU Structural Funds

Michael Gove: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations the Government have received advocating the broadening of the scope of EU structural funding to include a wider range of projects.

Douglas Alexander: The eligibility of projects for support from the EU structural funds is determined by the relevant Council and Commission Regulations governing those funds. The regulations for the 200713 period are still being negotiated. The Government's position in the negotiations is developed through consultation. Government departments and national and regional bodies maintain regular dialogue with stakeholders and their representatives, including Regional Development Agencies, Regional Assemblies, local authorities, MPs, MEPs, Councillors, through correspondence, information events, and meetings with ministers and officials.
	The scope of structural funding has been an aspect of discussions on the proposals to improve the strategic focus of spending in this area over the next programming period. The Government supports these proposals, as have the majority of UK stakeholders. The change in focus will inevitably affect the eligibility of some activities.

European Council

Peter Law: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what matters in respect of inward investment into the poorer regions of (a) the new member states from eastern Europe and (b) the United Kingdom were discussed at the European Council meeting on 15 to 16 December 2005; and what assessment he has made of the likely effects on the poorer areas of Wales of the agreed conclusions of the council.

Douglas Alexander: The European Council in December agreed the overall budgetary framework for the EU for the period 2007 to 2013, including Structural and Cohesion Funds (SCF). The agreement marked a historic shift in EU funding to the new EU member states, and they will receive over half of the SCF budget in the next period. Nevertheless, West Wales and the valleys will continue to receive an amount of convergence funding similar to which they received in this financial perspective.

Iran

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of whether Iran is organising training camps for non-Iranian operatives for (a) military and (b) terrorist activity.

Kim Howells: We are aware of reports that Iran is providing training to groups seeking to undermine peace in the Middle East through violence. We remain deeply concerned about Iran's approach to terrorism and the nature of its relationship with Lebanese Hizballah and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. We are also deeply concerned about and continue to investigate Iran's links to extremist groups in Iraq. We have pressed Iran to renounce all support for groups using terror and violence. We have also urged Iran to take effective action against members of Al-Qaeda and jihadist groups using Iran as a base, transit route or refuge, and to co-operate actively with the rest of the international community against them.

Iran

Keith Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what funds have been provided by his Department for the promotion of civil society in Iran.

Kim Howells: Funding is available through the Foreign and Commonwealth Office's (FCO) programme budgets to support projects in Iran in areas such as engaging with the Islamic world; drugs and crime; climate change; governance; and counter terrorism. The largest of these funds, the FCO's Global Opportunities Fund has a total of 34.6 million for use in projects around the world for financial year 200506.

Jordan

Keith Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what his assessment is of the security situation in Jordan.

Kim Howells: We assess that there is a high threat from terrorism in Jordan. Attacks could be indiscriminate and happen at any time and in any place. Further information about the security situation can be foundon the travel advice pages of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website at http://www.fco.gov.uk.

Nigeria

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Nigerian government on its decision to remove homeless people from Lagos and Abuja; and if he will make a statement.

Ian Pearson: The relocation of people and property in Abuja is part of a long-running policy of city structure planning and affects both residents and businesses in all levels of society. The Nigerian Minister for the Federal Capital Territory has assured us that only structures built without planning permission and valid land allocation have been affected, that occupants and property owners are given notification well in advance, and that alternative arrangements are being made for communities affected including the offer of plots of land at subsidised rates. We have raised this issue with the Nigerian Government to ensure that humanitarian concerns are being taken into account. The Department for International Development Nigeria Office is in contact with the Nigerian authorities about possible support on these issues.
	In Lagos, civil servants have been moved out of government housing. This is a result of a change in the remuneration package for Nigerian civil servants, as part of a wider programme of civil service reform. The entitlement to many non-monetary allowances such as free housing and vehicles has been replaced by higher salaries. We have not made representations on these evictions.

Palestine

Keith Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what his assessment is of the security situation in Gaza.

Kim Howells: We remain concerned at the recent escalation of violence in Gaza and continue to call upon Palestinian Authority (PA) President Mahmoud Abbas to take all the necessary steps to take full control of security in the area. Some progress has been made but more needs to be done. The PA is working closely with the US Security Co-ordinator, General Dayton, in order to improve its effectiveness on security. The EU are working with the PA to expand the current EU Police Support mission to increase the operational capacity of the Palestinian police force.
	On 6 January, we updated our travel advice, available from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website at: http://www.fco.gov.uk, stating that we advise against all travel to the Gaza Strip due to the current security situation and urge all British nationals who do not have continuous and professional close security protection to leave Gaza. Our travel advice is kept under constant review.

Religious Freedom Panel

John Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when he next expects to convene a meeting of the Religious Freedom Panel; and if he will make a statement.

Ian Pearson: We will be contacting members of the panel this month to seek suggestions on possible themes for discussion and guest speakers with a view to convening a meeting in March.
	Wherever possible, we aim to work with officials, religious leaders and non- governmental organisations (NGOs) at both an international and local level to promote mutual understanding and tolerance. While we have working contacts with many faith groups and NGOs, we value the breadth that the Freedom of Religion Panel can offer and look forward to a meeting in the near future.
	Promotion of human rights, including freedom of thought, conscience and religion, is at the heart of our foreign policy. We condemn instances where individuals are persecuted because of their faith or belief, wherever they happen and whatever the religion of the individual or group concerned.
	We take every appropriate opportunity, including with our EU partners, to urge states to pursue laws and practices which foster tolerance and mutual respect and to protect religious minorities against discrimination, intimidation and attacks. We also regularly raise specific cases of religious persecution with the Governments concerned.

Renditions

Nicholas Clegg: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether the Government have refused a request by the United States for the rendition through the United Kingdom of (a) Mohammed Sadeek Odeh and (b) Mohammed Rashed Dauod al-Owhali since 1997.

Kim Howells: We have found no evidence that the Government have refused a request from the United States for the rendition of Mohammed Sadeek Odeh or Mohammed Rashed Daoud al-Owhali since 1997.

Somalia

Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he is taking to encourage the development of a democratic government in Somalia.

Ian Pearson: With international partners we supported the Somali National Reconciliation process in Nairobi, which led to the return of the Transitional Federal Government and Parliament to Somalia in June 2005. We continue to urge members of the Transitional Federal Government and Parliament in Jowhar and Mogadishu to reconcile their differences and create the conditions for effective, inclusive government, supervised by the Transitional Federal Parliament.
	The Transitional Federal Charter envisages the development of a new constitution to be followed by democratic elections in five years. We and international partners are committed to supporting this process.

Sudan

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has received on the conduct of the Hamdab (Merowe) dam project, Sudan; and if he will make representations to the Chinese Government about the role of Chinese contractors in restricting traditional access to water supplies.

Ian Pearson: My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary has received no representations about the Merowe dam project but our embassy in Khartoum is following the matter closely. It is for the Government of Sudan to set the terms of contracts for infrastructure in its territory, and to ensure that these terms are complied with. Our ambassador discussed the dam project with the Governor of River Nile State, where the dam is located, on his visit to the area in December 2005 and pressed the Sudanese Government to work closely with those communities affected by the project and ensure that their rights and interests are respected. The embassy will continue to raise the consequences of the dam project with the Government of Sudan, and stress the importance of ensuring that such projects, and those implementing them, do not violate the local population's rights.

Sudan

John Bercow: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs 
	(1)  what assessment he has made of the co-operation of the Government of Sudan with the deployment of the African Union force in Darfur;
	(2)  what discussions he has had with the Government of Sudan on expediting the clearance, movement and access throughout Darfur of equipment and personnel needed by the African Union force.

Ian Pearson: Relevant UN Security Council Resolutions require all parties to the conflict in Darfur to co-operate fully with the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS). We are currently pressing the African Union (AU) and the Government of Sudan to sign a Status of Mission Agreement, which will provide a clear legal basis for AMIS, and for other administrative barriers on issues such as customs clearance or the imposition of curfews to be resolved as soon as possible.
	However, co-operation by the Government of Sudan has been inconsistent and, at times, detrimental to the effective deployment of AMIS. We regularly discuss this with the AU and any problems are pursued with the Government of Sudan directly by Ministers and via our embassy in Khartoum.

Sudan

John Bercow: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs 
	(1)  what discussions he has had with the members of the UN Security Council regarding greater co-operation between the Department of Peacekeeping Operations and the African Union to promote stability and security in Darfur;
	(2)  what discussions he has had with the members of the UN Security Council regarding the possible role of the Department of Peacekeeping Operations in the long-term stability of Darfur.

Ian Pearson: We regularly discuss such issues with the Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO) and with members of the UN Security Council. The DPKO is responsible for the United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) which liaises closely with the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS). UNMIS and the African Union (AU) maintain close and regular contact and have undertaken joint activities on the ground in Darfur, such as training in policing and operational planning. They have also agreed that AU personnel will provide escorts for UNMIS human rights observers throughout Darfur. Additionally, the DPKO runs the UN Assistance Cell to the AU based in Addis Ababa, which helps support the AU in planning and providing technical advice for AMIS and works closely with other partners to facilitate the AU Commission's efforts to secure required resources and other support needs for AMIS. We will continue to encourage both the DPKO and the AU to co-operate closely to promote stability and security in Darfur.

Sudan

Quentin Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs 
	(1)  whether at the meeting of the General Affairs Council of the EU on 21 and 22 November 2005 he proposed supplying tactical lift helicopters to the African Union peacekeeping force in Darfur;
	(2)  whether at the meeting of the EU General Affairs Council on 21 and 22 November 2005 he proposed assisting the African Union peacekeeping force in Darfur by providing it with output from satellite surveillance;
	(3)  whether at the meeting of the EU General Affairs Council on 21 and 22 November 2005 he proposed providing intelligence from electronic interception to the African Union peacekeeping force in Darfur.

Ian Pearson: The meeting of the General Affairs and External Relations Council of the EU on 21 and 22 November 2005 discussed the EU's Strategy for Africa in detail, including the need for increased support for peace and security throughout the continent: there was no specific discussion on Sudan.
	The UK and other international partners recently participated in a joint assessment mission with the African Union (AU) to examine the effectiveness of the AU Mission in Sudan. The recommendations and conclusions of this report were discussed by the AU at their Political and Security Council meeting on 12 January. We have made clear that we stand ready to help the AU implement the recommendations of this report and improve the effectiveness of the mission.

Zimbabwe

Fraser Kemp: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the treatment of (a) dissidents and (b) pro-democracy campaigners in Zimbabwe.

Ian Pearson: We and our EU partners judged the March 2005 presidential elections as neither free nor fair. In addition to the human rights situation, we held reservations about the election environment. We therefore commend the 5 December 2005 African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights resolution on human rights abuses in Zimbabwe, available at http://www.zlhr.org.zw/media/releases/jan_02_06.htm.
	Until there is the full restoration of democratic accountability, respect for human rights and the rule of law, the Government will continue to support those working for peaceful change in Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe

Fraser Kemp: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent assessment he has made of the political situation in Zimbabwe; and what assessment he has made of the prospects for the restoration of democracy in that country.

Ian Pearson: The political situation remains dire. Mugabe's ZANU(PF) Government continues to tighten its grip on power, including by clamping down on political and social challenge through the illegal confiscation of passports and the harassment of journalists and the trade unionists.
	Until Mugabe changes his policies, Zimbabwe will continue to suffer and ordinary citizens will be denied their basic and fundamental rights. Pressure to reform from within Africa is growing, and frustration within Zimbabwe is building. We will continue to support all those who are working towards the restoration of good governance in Zimbabwe.

CABINET OFFICE

Christmas Celebrations

David Davies: To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what measures his Department took to celebrate Christmas in 2005.

Jim Murphy: The Cabinet Office provided decorated Christmas trees in some buildings. The Department had a corporate greeting card which was sent to people with whom we had worked during 2005. 100 per cent. of the material of the card was from sustainable managed forests, and 40 per cent. of its cost went to charity.
	A number of Cabinet Office employees attended and participated in the Whitehall Carol Service organised by the Whitehall-wide Christian Network. Participants included myself and Sir Gus O'Donnell, the Cabinet Secretary, who gave a reading at the service.
	Employees organised their own work unit celebrations in the form of meals or parties and some employees decorated their work areas as agreed with their management unit at their own cost. Christmas themed meals were sold on set days in departmental employee canteens.

Departmental Expenditure

Theresa Villiers: To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster how much was spent by his Department on refreshments in each year since 1997.

Jim Murphy: The information requested for the Cabinet Office is not readily available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.

Departmental Vehicles

Theresa Villiers: To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster how many cars are (a) owned and (b) leased by his Department; what models the cars are; what type of petrol each model requires; and what the fuel efficiency is of each model.

Jim Murphy: The number of cars owned by the Cabinet Office; what models the cars are; what type of petrol each model requires; and what the fuel efficiency is of each model, is shown in the table.
	
		Number, model, fuel type and efficiency of cars owned by the Department
		
			  Make/model Type of petrol  Fuel efficiency 
		
		
			 2Toyota Prius Hybrid electricity/petrol 65.7 mpg (combined) 
			 Vauxhall Vectra LS DTI Diesel 10.76 average miles/ltr 
			 Ford Focus LX TD DI Diesel 10.47 average miles/ltr 
			 Peugeot 406 GLX HDI Diesel 9.52 average miles/ltr 
			 LDV 400 Convoy Minibus Diesel 5.78 average miles/ltr 
		
	
	For vehicles provided to Government Departments by the GCDA, my hon. Friend, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department of Transport has asked the Chief Executive of the GCDA to write to the hon. Member with the information requested.
	All cars owned and leased are used whilst undertaking official business/duties.

Identity Fraud

Michael Penning: To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what training the Department has provided for (a) front desk and (b) administrative staff in relation to identity fraud.

Jim Murphy: The Cabinet Office does not deliver services directly to the public which may be open to identity fraud. Therefore the Department does not provide this training for their front desk or administrative staff.

DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER

Departmental Estate

David Amess: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what (a) land and (b) property his Department owns in the Southend West constituency.

Jim Fitzpatrick: The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister does not own any land or property in the Southend West constituency.

Departmental Estate (Gravesham)

Adam Holloway: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what (a) land, (b) property and (c) other assets his Department owns in Gravesham constituency.

Jim Fitzpatrick: The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister does not own any land, property or other assets in the Gravesham constituency.

Departmental Land/Property

Bob Spink: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what (a) land and (b) property is owned by his Department in Castle Point.

Jim Fitzpatrick: The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister does not own any land or property in the Castle Point constituency.

Electronic Government

Caroline Spelman: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what provisions the Government has made in relation to Implementing Electronic Government to facilitate (a) electronic exchange of property information between local authorities and the Valuation Office Agency and (b) extend the use of geographical information systems by local authorities.

Phil Woolas: One of the 22 Local e-Gov National Projects was Valuebill, which examined ways of effectively and efficiently linking local government and the Valuation Office Agency. This project has now been completed and is being rolled out by London Connects. With regard to geographical information systems, these are readily available commercial products, which local authorities have been able to procure in the same way as any other business software package, according to business need. Local e-government priority outcome G14 requires all local authorities in England to provide
	GIS-based presentation of information on roadworks in the local area, including contact details and updated daily.
	This outcome is required to be implemented by the end of March 2006.

English Partnerships

Joe Benton: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what criteria English Partnerships used in deciding to end support for housing market renewal land remediation schemes in South Sefton.

Yvette Cooper: English Partnerships (EP) is continuing to support housing market renewal schemes in Merseyside.
	In Sefton, English Partnerships has already invested in acquiring properties in the Bootle area for a combination of refurbishment, new building and some demolition. Planning permission has been granted for two housing association projects providing affordable homes and work is expected to begin in February 2006.
	English Partnerships has also provided funding for the acquisition of four former industrial sites and the remediation of one of those sites.
	Any further investment by English Partnerships in Sefton will be dependent upon the identification of projects which deliver strategic and transformational physical change which could not be otherwise achieved, and the availability of funding (in addition to Housing Market Renewal Fund allocations, of which some 9 million has been allocated to Sefton in 20056).
	Funding for housing market renewal areas has been increasing year by year, and against that background and an updated agenda for English Partnerships, English Partnerships is now taking a more strategic role in housing market renewal areas going forward.
	In such areas, English Partnerships is no longer providing general funding to assist land assembly and demolition. It is intended that core housing market renewal funding will be used for these purposes. Instead, English Partnership will focus on a limited number of major strategic interventions which fit English Partnerships role in delivering and supporting regeneration projects of national significance, and which would not otherwise be achievable. By definition these projects will be large scale, complex in nature and involve transforming rundown urban areas.
	English Partnerships is also continuing to offer valuable advice and support to pathfinders, including on masterplanning, delivery models and best practice drawn from other national programmes.

Local Government Compensation

Caroline Spelman: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what the cost of compensation claims to local government was in 200405; and what assessment the Government has made of the effect of the trend towards compensation claims on local government.

Phil Woolas: The information requested is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

London Gateway Port Harbour

Bob Spink: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister why the representations made by the hon. Member for Castle Point on the London Gateway Port Harbour proposal during 2005 were not included in his most recent circular letter listing representations received.

Stephen Ladyman: I have been asked to reply.
	The Secretary of State circulated on 9 January representations he received in direct response to his minded approval letter of 20 July 2005 on the proposed London Gateway Port Harbour Empowerment Order in which he had invited representations on certain particular matters. The hon. Members letters sent before the Secretary of State's letter of 20 July were taken in account in the writing of that letter.
	It remains open to the hon. Member to make a representation in response to the invitation contained in the Secretary of State's letter of 9 January.

Official Residences (Council Tax)

Caroline Spelman: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister 
	(1)  pursuant to his answer of 12 January 2006, Official Report, columns 7823W, on official residences (counciltax), whether (a) he and (b) a civil servant registered his residence at Admiralty House with Westminster City Council as a second home for council tax purposes;
	(2)  pursuant to his answer of 12 January 2006, Official Report, columns 7823W, on official residences (council tax), whether he has had his council tax bill for his residence in Hull paid from public funds in each year since 199798;
	(3)  pursuant to his answer of 12 January 2006, Official Report, columns 7823W, on official residences (council tax), on what date he became aware that his council tax bill on his Admiralty House residence was being paid from public funds.

Jim Fitzpatrick: The answer given by my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister on 12 January 2006, Official Report, column 782W, set out in full the arrangements for the payment of council tax on his official residences.

Park Police (Newham)

Caroline Spelman: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what representations his Office has received on the activities of Newham council's park police.

Phil Woolas: The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) has had no representation on the activities of Newham council's park police as this does not fall under ODPM remit.

South East Plan

Nicholas Soames: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister 
	(1) what estimate he has made of how many additional (a) general practitioners, (b) hospitals, (c) health centres, (d) teachers, (e) primary schools, (f) secondary schools, (g) further education institutions, (h) police officers, (i) police stations, (j) court facilities, (k) social workers, (l) other care workers, (m) fire officers and (n) fire stations will be required in West Sussex in relation to the additional 58,000 houses indicated in the South East Plan;
	(2)  what assessment he has made of what improvements to transport infrastructure will be required before an additional 58,000 houses can be built in West Sussex, as indicated in the South East Plan.

Yvette Cooper: holding answer 16 January 2006
	My right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister has not made any such estimates. The South East Plan is still being drafted by the South East England Regional Assembly. The Assembly expects to submit the remainder to Government at the end of March 2006. Thereafter the plan will be subject of public consultation and also testing by an independent panel, to enable Government to reach conclusions about the amount of housing required in West Sussex and all other parts of the South East.

Vacant Dwellings

David Amess: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what assessment he has made of the reasons for dwellings being vacant in (a) each local authority in Essex and (b) each London borough in each of the last five years.

Yvette Cooper: It is for local housing authorities to assess, as part of their strategic housing function, the reasons why dwellings in their areas are vacant. In general, the Government recognises that dwellings are vacant for a variety of reasons. About half of all private sector vacant dwellings are empty for less than six months and many of these will be unoccupied for transactional reasons to do with sale and renovation and will come back into occupation once sold or renovated. Dwellings that are vacant for non-transactional reasons often have problems associated with disrepair that must be overcome. From April local authorities will have new powers to bring empty houses back into use. We urge every local authority to use their new powers to improve housing in their area.

Valuation Office Agency

Caroline Spelman: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what criteria the Valuation Office Agency is applying in assessing whether a residential property starts incurring a business rate liability if a householder works at home in whole or part; and when these criteria were last amended.

Phil Woolas: The criteria applied by valuation officers of the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) are set out in the council tax manual published by the VOA on its website at www.voa.gov.uk. The guidance was last updated on 4 March 2004 to reflect the decision of the Lands Tribunal in the case of Tully v. Jorgensen (VO) 2003 RA 233.

Valuation Office Agency

Caroline Spelman: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what role the Valuation Office Agency plays in valuing properties owned by (a) central government, (b) public sector agencies and (c) local authorities other than local authority housing stock.

Phil Woolas: The Valuation Office Agency provides valuation advice to central government departments, public sector agencies and local authorities through its District Valuer Services business stream.
	The range of valuation advice encompasses asset Valuations for resource accounting and compulsory purchase; advice on the purchase and sale of property; specialist building surveying advice and valuations of mineral bearing property, land fill sites and plant and machinery.

Wind Turbine Projects

John Greenway: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what planning guidance his Department has issued in respect of wind turbine developments on domestic premises.

Yvette Cooper: Planning Policy Statement 22 Renewable Energy published in 2004 sets out the Government's planning policies for all types and scales of renewable energy projects. PPS22 sets a positive framework for the development of renewable energy by ensuring that local planning authorities include policies in their plans to promote and encourage, rather than restrict, the development of renewable energy resources. In particular, it notes that small scale renewable energy projects can provide a limited but nonetheless valuable contribution to meeting local and national needs.
	PPS22 does not contain specific advice on the issue of wind turbine developments on domestic premises. However, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister will be reviewing the relevant Part of the General Permitted Development Order later this year, to see if it would be appropriate to extent householders' permitted development rights in respect of the installation of micro-generation technology.

WORK AND PENSIONS

Benefits

Anne Snelgrove: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what measures are in place to notify widows and widowers of the monetary benefits available to them when a spouse has passed away.

James Plaskitt: We keep under review the way that information is made available about benefits so that bereaved people, at this very difficult time in their lives, know about their possible right to benefit and can act on it at the right time. Information is available from the local Jobcentre Plus and social security offices, and the Department for Work and Pensions website gives information about bereavement benefits together with leaflets and claim forms for downloading. Leaflets NP45 A guide to Bereavement Benefit, D49 What to do after a death in England and Wales and D49S What to do after a death in Scotland are available for professional advisers and the public, and are reviewed and revised as necessary annually.
	As well as providing traditional sources of information, we have been working in partnership with funeral directors, registrars and voluntary groups such as Cruse, National Association of Widows and Citizens Advice Bureaux who may be contacted by bereaved people. In addition we will continue to look for opportunities across Government and their services as they develop, to improve advice about this particular benefit, to those most in need of itthe newly bereaved.

Benefits

Frank Field: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the (a) smallest, (b) average and (c) largest amount fraudulently claimed in benefits which has resulted in a prosecution in respect of which all proceedings are complete is since 1997.

James Plaskitt: holding answer 9 January 2006
	The smallest amount fraudulently overpaid in benefits which has resulted in a prosecution is 0.00. Examples of cases where there has been no benefit overpayment are; collusive employers; attempted duplicate encashment of benefit cheques and order books; aiding and abetting; and identity fraud involving applications for a national insurance number.
	Information regarding the average and largest amounts fraudulently claimed in cases which lead to prosecution is not available as such records are not maintained.

Benefits

Vincent Cable: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how much his Department has spent on advertising in respect of benefit fraud in each of the last five years for which figures are available.

James Plaskitt: The information is in the table.
	
		000
		
			  Advertising spent 
		
		
			 200102 8,039 
			 200203 35 
			 200304 8,383 
			 200405 6,017 
			 200506 4,553 
		
	
	Notes:
	1.Figures are for the advertising spent for the Targeting Fraud (2001 to 2002) and Targeting Benefit Fraud (2003 to 2006) campaigns. The figure for 200506 is for invoices paid in the year to date.
	2.All figures are exclusive of VAT.
	3.The figures in these tables refer to media spend only, excluding production and other costs.
	4.All figures have been rounded to the nearest thousand.

Benefits

Adrian Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the national targets are for the Benefit Fraud Inspectorate; and what the performance of relevant offices in South Devon has been against those targets.

James Plaskitt: Nationally, the three main business objectives of the Benefit Fraud Inspectorate for 200506 are; to complete 50 full and focused inspections; to complete two specialist inspections; and to complete 100 assignments by the Performance Development team.
	The Benefit Fraud Inspectorate has no offices in South Devon.

Benefits

David Ruffley: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many and what percentage of local authorities detected fraudulent claims for (a) housing benefit and (b) council tax benefit resulted in prosecutions in each of the last six years.

James Plaskitt: Information on the number of fraudulent claims for housing benefit and council tax benefit that have been detected is not available. Therefore it is not possible to provide the percentage of fraudulent claims that have been prosecuted.
	The number of successful prosecutions for benefit fraud by local authorities in each of the last six years is given as follows.
	
		Prosecutions and conviction for benefit fraud by local authorities
		
			  Number of court summons issued (prosecutions) Number of successful prosecutions (convictions) 
		
		
			 19992000  861 
			 200001  1,112 
			 200102 2,101 1,732 
			 200203 3,187 2,503 
			 200304 4,601 3,747 
			 200405 5,544 4,688 
			 200506 (Q1 and Q2 only) 3,336 2,892 
		
	
	Note:
	The number of court summons issued is not available prior to 200102.
	Source:
	Housing Benefit/Council Tax Benefit Management Information Returns.

Benefits

Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what steps he (a) has taken and (b) plans to take to reduce the complexity of the benefits system.

James Plaskitt: The National Audit Office in Annex A of its report Dealing with the complexity of the benefits system, published on 18 November 2005, acknowledged that the Department has already taken a number of steps to tackle complexity. We announced at the Public Accounts Committee hearing on 7 December 2005 that we are setting up a dedicated benefit simplification team which will seek to build on those steps.

Benefits

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what his Department's expenditure was on each benefit listed in the 7 December 2005 Uprating Statement in each year from 199091 in (a) cash terms and (b) real terms using 200304 prices.

James Plaskitt: The information has been placed in the library.

Benefits

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what his latest estimate is of the take-up rate of council tax benefit (a) in total and (b) by income decile; and if he will make a statement.

James Plaskitt: The latest information on the take-up rate of council tax benefit is available in Income Related Benefits Estimates of Take-Up in 2002/2003, a copy of which is in the Library.
	The information is not available broken down by income decile.

Benefits

Danny Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions when he plans to publish a bill on housing benefit reform; and if he will make a statement.

James Plaskitt: The Government set out its intention in the Queen's speech to bring forward legislation by the end of this Parliamentary Session to reform support for housing costs. We will also be setting out more broadly our proposals for welfare reform in a Green Paper to be published shortly.

Benefits

Danny Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what evidence he has collected on the effect of the local housing allowance on work incentives in Pathfinder areas; and if he will make a statement.

James Plaskitt: The Department has commissioned a comprehensive evaluation of the nine Pathfinder local authorities where the local housing allowance is being tested. The evaluation is collecting evidence on work incentives in Pathfinder areas but this will not be reported upon until the end of the evaluation later this year.

Benefits

Danny Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the average change has been in the amount of housing benefit overpayments going unrecovered in (a) Pathfinder and (b) non-Pathfinder areas since the Pathfinder pilots started.

James Plaskitt: The information is not available.

Benefits

Danny Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will estimate the cost of rolling out the local housing allowance to (a) Scotland, (b) England, (c) Wales and (d) Northern Ireland if additional central funding was provided to benefit authorities to support the transition at a level comparable to the funding provided to Pathfinder authorities.

James Plaskitt: Until the evaluation of the local housing allowance Pathfinders is complete and the design, timing and approach to a national rollout is determined, we are unable to say what amount of transitional funding would be made.
	It is unlikely that funding provision to cover the transition to the local housing allowance would be identical under a national roll-out to that provided to the Pathfinder authorities, because of the additional costs associated with running and evaluating a pilot.

Benefits

Andrew Pelling: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the total housing benefit paid to residents was in (a) the London borough of Croydon and (b) Greater London in 200405.

James Plaskitt: The total housing benefit paid in the London borough of Croydon for 200405 was 118,986,098. The total housing benefit paid in all London boroughs for 200405 was 3,396,902,703.
	These figures are the gross expenditure amounts taken from the 200405 housing benefit audited final subsidy claims. As audit processes are not yet complete, the amounts are subject to change.

Benefits

Fraser Kemp: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions whether he plans to include in the proposed Housing Benefit Bill a pilot scheme for the social rented sector and housing benefit sanctions for antisocial neighbours.

James Plaskitt: The Government set out its intention in the Queen's speech to bring forward legislation by the end of this parliamentary session to reform support for housing costs. We will also be setting out more broadly our proposals for welfare reform in a Green Paper due to be published shortly.
	The Government announced in the Respect Action Plan, published on 10 January, that it is considering the use of sanctions to ensure that those households who are evicted for antisocial behaviour take up help offered to them. If we decide to go ahead, we will look for a suitable legislative vehicle.

Benefits

Danny Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will estimate the cost of raising all housing benefit and council tax benefit earned income disregards in line with inflation since 1988.

James Plaskitt: The information necessary from which to make such an estimate is not available.

Benefits

Danny Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the average shortfall resulting from the single room rent restriction on housing benefit has been in each year since its introduction.

James Plaskitt: The available information is in the table.
	
		Median rent shortfall for housing benefit claimants restricted by the single room rent
		
			   
		
		
			 199798 25 
			 199899 24 
			 19992000 24 
			 200001 26 
			 200102 26 
			 200203 (27) 
			 200304 30 
			 200405 31 
		
	
	(27)A reliable estimate of the median shortfall in 200203 is not available due to data limitations.
	Notes:
	1.A shortfall is defined as the difference between the rent charged by the landlord and the maximum amount of housing benefit a claimant could receive. This does not take into account non-dependant deductions or any income over the applicable amount.
	2.The average measure given in this response is the median as this will not be as influenced as the mean by a small number of extreme observations, some of which may be recorded incorrectly in the data. It is therefore more representative of the average rent shortfall.
	3.The average rent shortfalls presented in the table apply only to those cases assessed under the single room rent restriction where this restriction results in a rent shortfall. Some cases assessed under the single room rent restriction will be bound by other Rent Officer restrictions and some will not face a shortfall. In 200405 three-quarters of all cases assessed under the single room rent restriction faced a shortfall as a result of this restriction.
	4.Average rent shortfalls are rounded to the nearest pound.
	Source:
	Rent Officer data, England and Wales from 199798 to 200001 and England only from 200102 onwards.

Benefits

David Ruffley: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will update the table on the number of households claiming means-tested benefits set out on 31 March 2003, Official Report, column 602W, broken down by (a) household type and (b) number of children.

James Plaskitt: The most recent available information is in the following table.
	
		Income support (IS), income-based jobseeker's allowance (JSA(IB)), housing benefit (HB) and council tax benefit (CTB) recipients by family type: Great Britain, May 2003
		
			  IS/JSA(IB) HB CTB 
		
		
			 Single (no children) 2,977,000 2,195,000 2,728,000 
			 Couple (no children) 442,000 439,000 686,000 
			 Single parent (one child) 473,000 411,000 422,000 
			 Single parent (two children) 315,000 293,000 306,000 
			 Single parent (three or more children) 208,000 199,000 209,000 
			 Couple (one child) 92,000 91,000 99,000 
			 Couple (two children) 87,000 88,000 93,000 
			 Couple (three or more children) 92,000 79,000 84,000 
			 Total benefit units with at least one person receiving benefit 4,686,000 3,796,000 4,628,000 
			 Total number of adults in benefit units where at least one person is receiving benefit 5,399,000 4,494,000 5,591,000 
			 Total number of children in benefit units where at least one person is receiving benefit 2,431,000 2,244,000 2,348,000 
		
	
	Notes:
	1.Figures are rounded to the nearest thousand.
	2.Numbers are based on 1 per cent., 5 per cent. and 100 per cent. samples, and are therefore subject to a degree of sampling variation.
	3.JSA(IB) figures have been derived by applying 5 per cent. proportions to 100 per cent. WPLS totals.
	4.The data refers to benefit units, which may be a single person or a couple.
	5.Income-based JSA includes cases with underlying entitlement to contribution-based JSA.
	6.Council tax benefit totals exclude any second adult rebate cases.
	7.Housing benefit figures exclude any extended payment cases.
	8.Children are defined as children aged under 16 and young persons aged 16 to 18 in full time education.
	9.There will be a significant overlap between the figures as most people receive both HB and CTB, and a significant proportion also receives IS or JSA.
	10.Single parents are defined as all claimants with dependants and without a partner.
	11.Figures may be affected by the introduction of the new tax credits in April 2003.
	12.IS figures include MIG claimants.
	Sources:
	1.Information Directorate, 5 per cent. samples.
	2.Work and Pensions Longitudinal Study (WPLS) 100 per cent. data.
	3.Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit Management Information System, Annual 1 per cent. sample, taken in May 2003.

Benefits

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many people he estimates were entitled to but did not receive each benefit administered by his Department and its agencies in each year since 199798; what the sum of unclaimed benefit was in each year; and if he will make a statement.

James Plaskitt: Estimates of the numbers entitled to, but not receiving the main income-related benefits administered by the DWPminimum income guarantee/income support, jobseeker's allowance (income-based)as well as local authority administered housing benefit and council tax benefit, can be found in the DWP publication series entitled: Income Related Benefits Estimates of Take-Up, along with estimates of unclaimed benefit. Copies of the annual reports are held in the Library. The latest edition presents patterns in the take-up of each benefit, between 199798 and 200203.
	These estimates predate the introduction of pension credit, which replaced MIG in October 2003. Estimates of pension credit will be published on 31 January 2006; this publication will include the first six months of pension credit. Estimates for the full year 200405 are expected to be published in May 2006.
	Currently it is not possible to estimate take-up rates for disability living allowance and attendance allowance. Following a recommendation in Meeting DWP's long-term information needs on disability: a feasibility report, (DWP Research report number 267), the Department is commissioning research to test two possible approaches to establish whether it is possible to estimate take-up rates for these benefits. Results will be available in 2007.
	Information on other DWP administered benefits is not available.

Child Maintenance

Frank Field: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how much child maintenance outstanding from 199394 to 200405 from non-resident parents with cases with the Child Support Agency resulted from (a) full maintenance assessments and maintenance calculations where the outstanding amount is deemed to be possibly uncollectable or collectable, (b) full maintenance assessments and maintenance calculations where the outstanding amount is deemed probably uncollectable, (c) interim maintenance assessments where the outstanding amount is deemed to be possibly uncollectable or collectable and (d) interim maintenance assessments where the outstanding amount is deemed to be probably uncollectable; and what proportion of each category of debt has been recovered.

James Plaskitt: holding answer 11 November 2005
	The administration of the Child Support Agency is a matter for the chief executive Mr. Stephen Geraghty. He will write to the right hon. Member with the information requested.
	Letter from Stephen Geraghty, dated 19 January 2006
	In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the Child Support Agency the Secretary of State promised a substantive reply from the Chief Executive.
	You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how much child maintenance outstanding from 199394 to 200405 from non-resident parents with cases with the Child Support Agency resulted from (a) full maintenance assessments and maintenance calculations where the outstanding amount is deemed to be possibly uncollectable or collectable, (b) full maintenance assessments and maintenance calculations where the outstanding amount is deemed probably uncollectable, (c)interim maintenance assessments where the outstanding amount is deemed to be possibly uncollectable or collectable and (d) interim maintenance assessments where the outstanding amount is deemed to be probably uncollectable; and what proportion of each category of debt has been recovered.
	The tables provided show Agency debt from 19941995 to 20042005 split by collectability and assessment type. These are cumulative figures representing debt arising from the respective year and all previous years as no debt has ever been written off by the Agency.
	As reported in the 2004/05 annual report, the Agency updated the classification criteria used to analyse debt. This was to reflect improved management information around the recoverability of debt, resulting in more debt being classified as collectable. The outstanding amounts will be pursued vigorously through the Enforcement Directorate.
	The Agency currently receives over 585 million maintenance per year however there is still a culture surrounding its activities whereby some non-resident parents perceive it as acceptable not to comply with the Agency and make their maintenance payments. The Agency has therefore begun to take steps to tackle this issue.
	Debt has been increasing year on year because many non-resident parents actively avoid their obligations for example by changing jobs when the Agency imposes enforcement action on them or changing addresses whenever the Agency locates them. The Agency recognises that it needs to make more use of its powers of enforcement, and has started to take steps to do this, however this is constrained by the requirements of the legal process and dependent on decisions made by the courts.
	A dedicated Enforcement Directorate has been set up to focus on the collection of debt from the more difficult cases and the Agency is aggressively pursuing non-compliant clients more pro-actively than in the past. The directorate's aims are also to change the culture to one where it is not acceptable to deliberately avoid payment of maintenance.
	The creation of the Enforcement Directorate has already improved the Agency's enforcement performance and effectiveness with improved outcomes at the more routine stages of enforcement for example, bailiff action, third party debt orders and charging orders.
	The number of liability orders granted is improving with more than 4,500 liability orders being granted already this financial year. Also this year the amount collected by bailiff teams has doubled to 3 million and the Agency has achieved successful outcomes in increasing numbers of committal actions. In addition, the directorate has achieved collections of 8.39 million from April to November 2005, with November achieving the highest in month collections of 1.42 million.
	The actions outlined above should therefore start to reduce the historic debt levels and improve compliance.
	The achievements are modest in the context of the total debt but demonstrate that more focussed enforcement action can be successful. I have also made recommendations to Ministers on further improving enforcement following my review of the operations of the Agency.
	I hope you find this response helpful.
	
		Child maintenance outstanding as reported in annual report and accounts --  million
		
			 Cumulative Agency Debt position at year end 200405 Full maintenance assessment Maintenance calculation Interim maintenance assessment Default maintenance decision 
		
		
			 Collectable 459.19 88.9 78.5 11.2 
			 Possibly uncollectable 290.24 n/a 309.30 n/a 
			 Probably uncollectable 1,017.26 28.5 938.66 n/a 
			 Deferred 30.83 n/a 0.17 n/a 
			 Total 1,797.52 117.40 1,326.63 11.20 
		
	
	
		Maintenance collected as reported in the annual report and accounts --  million
		
			 Sums received Full maintenance assessments Maintenance calculations Interim maintenance assessments Default maintenance assessments Total 
		
		
			 200405 482.70 93.02 8.78 0.91 585.41 
			 200304 549.14 18.89 11.96 0.28 580.27 
			 200203 558.57 n/a 13.98 n/a 572.55 
			 200102 513.93 n/a 14.52 n/a 528.45 
			 200001 483.84 n/a 18.71 n/a 502.55 
			 19992000 437.25 n/a 23.43 n/a 460.68 
			 199899 370.08 n/a 22.30 n/a 392.38 
			 199798 286.48 n/a 19.68 n/a 306.16 
			 199697 201.41 n/a 11.80 n/a 213.21 
			 199596 127.73 n/a 6.72 n/a 134.45 
			 199495 74.20 n/a  n/a 74.20 
		
	
	n/a=Not available.
	Notes:
	1.The annual report and accounts for previous years were re-published in 199798, due to a change in accounting policy in reporting collectability of the debt. Also, the Agency did not publish audited accounts in 199394; and no figures are therefore shown for this year.
	2.The new scheme was launched on 3 March 2003, and (monies from new scheme cases and default maintenance decisions) began to accrue in the 200203. Information is provided from this date.
	3.The Deferred figures represent arrears maintenance that the Agency has agreed not to collect from non-resident parents because the Agency was wholly or partly responsible for the build-up of those arrears.
	4.Full maintenance assessments and interim maintenance assessments include new and old scheme cases. Maintenance calculated and default maintenance decisions are new scheme only.
	5.The Agency is unable to provide the proportion recovered for each debt category. The principle behind the recoverability of debt as reported in the annual report and accounts is based on a sample of cases examined as part of a National Audit Office approved annual debt analysis exercise.

Child Support Agency

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many requests for information Child Support Agency staff may make to the DVLA each month; how many requests were made in each month since 2001; and what the average time taken to respond was.

James Plaskitt: The administration of the Child Support Agency is a matter for the chief executive. He will write to the hon. Member.
	Letter from Hilary Reynolds, dated 19 January 2006
	In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the Child Support Agency the Secretary of State promised a substantive reply from the Chief Executive, as Stephen Geraghty is on leave I am replying on his behalf.
	You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how many requests for information Child Support Agency staff may make to the DVLA each month; how many requests were made in each month since 2001; and what the average time taken to respond was.
	Under the terms of the July 2002 Service Level Agreement, the Child Support Agency may issue up to 70 requests for information from the DVLA per calendar month (840 per year) nationally.
	The Agency holds robust data on the number of requests for information issued to the DVLA for each month since 1stDecember 2003:
	
		
			  Number 
		
		
			 2003  
			 December 2003 29 
			   
			 2004  
			 January 48 
			 February 54 
			 March 60 
			 April 56 
			 May 52 
			 June 48 
			 July 47 
			 August 54 
			 September 44 
			 October 39 
			 November 52 
			 December 45 
			   
			 2005  
			 January 47 
			 February 46 
			 March 45 
			 April 47 
			 May 41 
			 June 60 
			 July 41 
			 August 33 
			 September 55 
			 October 45 
		
	
	We can also say with accuracy that a total of 871 requests for information were issued to the DVLA in the period from 1st April 2002 to 30th November 2003, although we cannot break this down on a monthly basis.
	We do not currently have robust information on volumes of requests issued to the DVLA earlier than April 2002.
	The average time taken to obtain a response from the DVLA is not available, but under the terms of the Service Level Agreement requests for information from the Child Support Agency should be returned within 10 working days of their receipt by the DVLA. The table below outlines the current success rate achieved against that target in the current financial year:
	
		
			  Percentage 
		
		
			 2005  
			 April 90 
			 May 66 
			 June 40 
			 July 71 
			 August 82 
			 September 87 
			 October 100 
		
	
	I hope you find this information useful.

Child Support Agency

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what proportion of cases on the Child Support Agency old scheme have been reassessed in the last three years.

James Plaskitt: The administration of the Child Support Agency is a matter for the Chief Executive. He will write to the hon. Member.
	Letter from Stephen Geraghty, dated 19 January 2006
	In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the Child Support Agency the Secretary of State promised a substantive reply from the Chief Executive.
	You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what proportion of cases on the Child Support Agency old scheme have been reassessed in the last three years.
	The information requested is not available.
	I am sorry I can't be more helpful at this time.

Child Support Agency

Paul Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions 
	(1)  what contingency plans he has prepared in relation to computer systems used by the Child Support Agency;
	(2)  by what date he will decide whether to cease using the new computer system provided by EDS to assess Child Support Agency cases; and if he will make a statement.

James Plaskitt: We recognise that there are ongoing problems with the service delivered to clients of the Child Support Agency via the computer system. These are unacceptable and we continue to work closely with EDS to effect improvement.

Child Support Agency

Danny Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many people in Scotland have been non-compliant with their Child Support Agency assessment in each quarter since the first quarter of 1996.

James Plaskitt: The administration of the Child Support Agency is a matter for the Chief Executive. He will write to the hon. Member with the information requested.
	Letter from Stephen Geraghty, dated 19 January 2006
	In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the Child Support Agency the Secretary of State promised a substantive reply from the Chief Executive.
	You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how many people in Scotland have been non-compliant with their Child Support Agency assessment in each quarter since the first quarter of 1996.
	Such information as is available is set out in the attached table.
	The information requested cannot be extracted for new scheme cases and old scheme cases on the new computer system in Scotland for the period March 2003 to the present. Therefore the table refers to old scheme cases prior to the introduction of the new scheme.
	It should be noted that whilst the number of non compliant cases increased by two thousand between February 1996 and February 2003, the overall caseload also increased over the same period. The compliance rate in reality increased over this time from 58 to 76 per cent.
	I hope you find this information helpful.
	
		Number of non compliant Child Support Agency collection service cases in Scotland, in each quarter from February 1996 to February 2003
		
			  Non compliant cases 
		
		
			 February 1996 7,000 
			 May 1996 6,000 
			 August 1996 7,000 
			 November 1996 7,000 
			 February 1997 7,000 
			 May 1997 7,000 
			 August 1997 6,000 
			 November 1997 6,000 
			 February 1998 6,000 
			 May 1998 7,000 
			 August 1998 8,000 
			 November 1998 8,000 
			 February 1999 9,000 
			 May 1999 7,000 
			 August 1999 9,000 
			 November 1999 10,000 
			 February 2000 10,000 
			 May 2000 10,000 
			 August 2000 10,000 
			 November 2000 11,000 
			 February 2001 12,000 
			 May 2001 12,000 
			 August 2001 12,000 
			 November 2001 13,000 
			 February 2002 12,000 
			 May 2002 10,000 
			 August 2002 9,000 
			 November 2002 8,000 
			 February 2003 9,000 
		
	
	Notes:
	1.Numbers are rounded to the nearest thousand.
	2.Compliance is defined as all those cases which are open and have paid money via the collection service in Scotland over the preceding quarter.
	3.The table only includes old scheme cases with a full maintenance assessment. Those with a punitive interim maintenance assessment are excluded from this analysis, in line with the Agency's target definition.

Child Support Agency

Anne McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what use has been made by the Child Support Agency of (a) attachment of earnings orders, (b) withdrawal of driving licences and (c) other enforcement powers in each of the last three years; and what estimate he has made of the cost of tagging absentparents failing to pay monies owed for their children.

James Plaskitt: The Child Support Agency does not use attachment of earnings orders; the child support legislation allows for a deduction from earnings order (DEO) to be made.
	The following table below shows the number of cases with a DEO as a method of maintenance collection in the particular month stated. This table also shows the percentage of cases this affects.
	
		
			 Month Cases with DEO as a method of maintenance collection Percentage of cases with DEO as a method of collection 
		
		
			 November 2002 134,000 24 
			 November 2003   
			 November 2004 131,000 22 
			 September 2005 147,000 22 
		
	
	Notes:
	1.Numbers include deduction from earnings requests (DER's), which are issued when the non-resident parent is in the armed forces.
	2.Numbers are rounded to the nearest thousand.
	3.Robust information covering the period May 2003 to February 2004 is not currently available.
	4.The number of cases includes those old scheme cases with a full maintenance assessment, and those new scheme cases with either a full maintenance calculation, or a default maintenance decision. Old scheme cases with a punitive interim maintenance assessment (an imposed assessment due to the non co-operation of the non-resident parent), a small number of which would have deductions from earnings orders in place, are excluded from this analysis in line with the Agency's target definitions, as are new scheme cases being processed clerically. There are also currently around 5,000 cases for which the method of payment is unknown, some of which could be DEOs.
	Committal to prison or disqualification from holding a driving license are enforcement sanctions used as a last resort by the agency when all other enforcement measures have failed. The court will decide which of the sanctions is the most appropriate.
	The following table shows the committal to prison and disqualification from driving outcomes in Great Britain.
	
		Number
		
			  Suspended committal sentence Committal sentence Driving licencesuspended sentence Driving licencedisqualified 
		
		
			 200304 95 8 9 1 
			 200405 224 8 31 5 
			 November 200506 212 8 13 4 
			 Total 531 24 53 10 
		
	
	The following table shows the number of litigation cases instigated in England and Wales.
	
		Number
		
			  County court judgements Bailiffs Third party debt orders Charging orders 
		
		
			 200304 513 3062 1395 922 
			 200405 1180 4446 1292 851 
			 November 200506 1348 4962 1132 878 
			 Total 3041 12470 3819 2651 
		
	
	The following table shows the number of litigation cases instigated in Scotland.
	
		Number
		
			  Arrestments Attachments Attached goods auction Letters of inhibition 
		
		
			 200304 768 81 4 102 
			 200405 457 115 2 232 
			 November 200506 323 97 2 331 
			 Total 1548 293 8 665 
		
	
	We have made no estimation of the cost of tagging.

Child Support Agency

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what targets his Department has for improvement in customer perception of the performance of the Child Support Agency; and if he will make a statement.

James Plaskitt: Ministers will set targets for 200607 which will be aimed at ensuring real, sustained progress towards performance improvements and delivery.

Child Support Agency

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what guidelines are given to staff at the Child Support Agency in relation to the circumstances in which deduction of earnings orders can be imposed; and if he will make a statement.

James Plaskitt: The administration of the Child Support Agency is a matter for the chief executive. He will write to the hon. Member with the information requested.
	Letter from Stephen Geraghty, dated 19 January 2006
	In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the Child Support Agency the Secretary of State promised a substantive reply from the Chief Executive.
	You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what guidelines are given to staff at the Child Support Agency in relation to the circumstances in which deduction of earnings orders can be imposed; and if he will make a statement.
	A deduction from earnings order is a method of enforcement action to be used on non-resident parents in employment if there is an indication that payment will not be made or when payment breaks down. The law does not require the Agency to repeatedly warn clients or wait for a history of non-payment to emerge.
	Child Support Agency staff are advised of the action to take in cases where a deduction from earnings order is appropriate in on-line procedural guidance, Adviceline bulletins and through training. They are asked to consider imposing a deduction from earnings order on a case if any of the following situations arise:
	Other methods of payment have been ineffective with payments late, missed or partial.
	The non-resident parent fails to respond to arrears notices, warning letters or calls.
	The Agency holds a confident employer details for the non-resident parent.
	The non-resident parent voluntarily requests payment direct from earnings.
	Our staff are advised that whether or not a deduction from earnings order can be imposed depends upon the type of income the non-resident parent is receiving. I have listed below a summary of the additional scenarios that should be taken into account before a deduction from earnings order is imposed:
	The non-resident parent has two or more employers
	The non-resident parent is not classed as employed.
	The non-resident parent is self-employed
	The non-resident parent is in receipt of Statutory Sick Pay
	The non-resident parent is in receipt of Statutory Maternity Pay,
	The non-resident parent is in receipt of Statutory Redundancy Pay.
	The non-resident parent is the subject of Sequestration (in Scotland).
	The non-resident parent's employer is outside of Child Support Agency jurisdiction.
	I hope you find this helpful.

Child Support Agency

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions whether it is his policy that there will be no major reductions in front line staffing at the Child Support Agency; and if he will make a statement.

James Plaskitt: As stated in the Government response to the Work and Pensions Select Committee report on 24 March 2005, there will be no major reductions in front line staffing until the new computer system is working effectively.

Child Support Agency

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will publish the assessment of the Child Support Agency's business transformation plan made by the new chief executive; and if he will make a statement.

James Plaskitt: We have received the report from the chief executive and we are considering the findings. The Secretary of State will make an announcement on child support shortly.

Child Support Agency

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what action he is taking to strengthen the Child Support Agency's powers to require non-resident parents to provide information on their current address and employment details; and if he will make a statement.

James Plaskitt: It is a criminal offence, under Section14A of the Child Support Act, for not supplying information to the Agency when requested to do so or by knowingly providing false information. This offence currently carries a maximum 1,000 fine.

Child Support Agency

Harry Cohen: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how the Child Support Agency has responded to representations to it from men who were deemed to be fathers without care but subsequently proved not to be the father for compensation or interest on the sums taken from them in addition to reimbursement of the sum itself; and if he will make a statement.

James Plaskitt: If maintenance has already been paid bythe alleged non-resident parent when he is found not to be the father, he will receive a refund of any maintenance paid.
	Compensation or interest would not normally be paid in addition unless there has been maladministration on the part of the Agency. Each case is considered on its merits.

Child Support Agency

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the total cost has been of running the Child Support Agency including all capital costs, in each year since 199495; and if he will make a statement.

James Plaskitt: The administration of the Child Support Agency is a matter for the chief executive. He will write to the hon. Member with the information requested.
	Letter from Stephen Geraghty, dated 19 January, 2006
	You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what the total cost has been of running the Child Support Agency including all capital costs in each year since 199495. The information that you requested is in the following table:
	
		 million
		
			  Net administration costs Capital expenditure Maintenance paid 
		
		
			 199495 192.393 1.993 82.4 
			 199596 199.268 1.880 128.63 
			 199697 224.525 3.937 207.75 
			 199798 225.942 1.375 298.80 
			 199899 231.174 2.458 389.96 
			 19992000 260.333 4.310 457.44 
			 200001 250.046 1.423 498.86 
			 200102 290.413 0.247 526.80 
			 200203 294.286 1.467 570.69 
			 200304 322.983 0.517 580.09 
			 200405 325.619 0.457 583.15

Child Support Agency

Anne Snelgrove: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions in how many Child Support Agency cases which have gone to court those paying maintenance have been ordered to make repayments over a period of longer than 16 years.

James Plaskitt: The administration of the Child Support Agency is a matter for the Chief Executive. He will write to my hon. Friend with the information requested.
	Letter from Stephen Geraghty, dated 19 January 2006
	In reply to your recent Parliamentary about the Child Support Agency the Secretary of State promised a substantive reply from the Chief Executive.
	You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions in how many Child Support Agency cases which have gone to court those paying maintenance have been ordered to make repayments over a period of longer than 16 years.
	I am not able to provide this information as the Agency does not hold data that can identify what repayment arrangements have been ordered by the courts. I am sorry I could not be more helpful.

Disability Discrimination Act

Sarah Teather: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions whether his Department has carried out research into awareness of the implications of the Disability Discrimination Act 2005 for recruitment and employment of disabled people among (a) small, (b) medium-sized and (c) large businesses; and what steps he is taking to increase awareness among such businesses with particular reference to enabling access to workplaces.

Anne McGuire: The primary impact on recruitment and employment of disabled people among businesses of all sizes stems from the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 as amended by the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (Amendment) Regulations 2003. These Regulations significantly extended the employment provisions of the 1995 Act to cover small employers and all previously excluded occupations, except the armed forces, from 1 October 2004. Research into the impact of the Act has formed part of DWP's on-going programme of research into the awareness of Disability Discrimination legislation.
	The Department commissioned two research projects to determine employers' awareness of, and their responses, to the duties introduced in October 2004, The results were published in 'Research Report 202: Disability in the workplace: Employers and service providers responses to the Disability Discrimination Act in 2003 and preparation for 2004 changes'; and 'Research Report 277: Disability in the workplace: Small employers' awareness and responses to the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 and the October 2004 duties'. Copies of these reports can be found in the House of Commons Library.
	DWP is planning research that will continue to analyse the awareness of and response to the Disability Discrimination Act, particularly among those with duties specific to the DDA 2005. Employers of all sizes will be captured both within the survey and case study aspect of this research, and results will be published in a report due in autumn 2006.
	DWP launched a further awareness campaign on 1 December 2005 aimed at reminding small businesses about the duties placed on them by the October 2004 legislative changes.

Electronic Data Systems

Frank Field: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what discussions his Department has had with the National Audit Office on the Child Support Agency contract with Electronic Data Systems.

James Plaskitt: The administration of the Child Support Agency is a matter for the chief executive. He will write to the right hon. Member with the information requested.
	Letter from Stephen Geraghty, dated 19 January 2006
	In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the Child Support Agency the Secretary of State promised a substantive reply from the Chief Executive.
	You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what representations his Department has received from the National Audit Office on the background to the Child Support Agency contract with Electronic Data Systems.
	The Select Committee Report in January 2005, on the Performance of the Child Support Agency provided Government with a number of recommendations. Recommendation 3 focused on the CSA contract with EDS:
	We recommend that the National Audit Office undertakes a comprehensive study of the background to the CSA contract with EDS as soon as it is feasible to do so, and that Parliament should debate the findings in Government time on the floor of the House.
	The Government noted this recommendation in its response to the Select Committee in March 2005.
	National Audit Office has commenced an investigation into Child Support Reforms, which will address this recommendation. It is currently in the process of gathering evidence.
	I hope you find this information helpful.

Job Losses (Warrington)

Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what support his Department will provide to people in Warrington who lose their jobs as a result of the closure of the Safeway distribution centre.

Margaret Hodge: Funding has been approved to enable the Jobcentre Plus Rapid Response Service to support the Safeway workers in a variety of ways. A Skills Training Analysis will be conducted to assess individuals' existing skills and to identify specific needs in relation to further employment. In addition, funding will enable the provision of job focused training if not available from other sources or Jobcentre Plus partners.
	Specific funding has also been allocated to enable Jobcentre Plus staff within the affected district to assist individuals through this process, giving information, advice and guidance.
	Additionally, Jobcentre Plus staff are working closely with the company to provide help by:
	attending planning meetings with the company's Human Resources team;
	holding one to one briefing sessions for affected staff;
	placing financial advisers with the company, initially for two weeks;
	holding a mini Jobsfair at the company;
	conducting interviews for claiming benefit on the company premises and issuing all relevant paperwork;
	making arrangements to take claims on Saturday mornings at the Jobcentre;
	arranging for personal advisers to contact staff currently off sick to offer assistance.

Jobseeker's Allowance

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of the cost of increasing the level of jobseeker's allowance (JSA) by (a) 1 per week, (b) 5 per week and (c) 10 per week for each rate of JSA.

James Plaskitt: No such estimate has been made.

Jobseeker's Allowance

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what proportion of the off-flow from jobseeker's allowance found work in each year from 199091; and if he will make a statement.

James Plaskitt: Information is not available prior to 1998. For the available information, I refer the hon. Member to the written answer I gave on 8 November 2005, Official Report, column 381W.

Jobseeker's Allowance

Fraser Kemp: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many people aged over 50 years claimed jobseeker's allowance (JSA) in Houghton and Washington, East constituency in (a) 200102, (b) 200203, (c) 200304 and (d) 200405; and what percentage (i) remained on JSA, (ii) found work, (iii) moved onto income support and (iv)moved onto incapacity benefit in each year.

James Plaskitt: The information is not available in the format requested. The available information is in the table.
	
		Jobseeker's allowance (JSA) claims where the claimant is aged 50 or over in the Houghton and Washington, East parliamentary constituency and percentage who left the benefit
		
			  Case load Percentage left JSA 
		
		
			 200102 900 77.8 
			 200203 900 66.7 
			 200304 1,000 70.0 
			 200405 1,100 81.8 
		
	
	Notes:
	1.Figures refer to financial years from 1 April to 31 March.
	2.All figures refer to JSA claims where the claimant is aged 50 or over. People who have had multiple JSA claims will be counted more than once.
	3.Per cent. left JSA refers to the percentage of JSA claims (where the claimant was aged 50 or over) that had terminated by the end of the financial year.
	4.Numbers are rounded to the nearest hundred; percentages are rounded to one decimal place.
	Source:
	DWP Information Directorate, 5 per cent. terminations dataset.

National Insurance Numbers

Lynne Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many applicants for national insurance numbers have been waiting more than (a) one month, (b) three months and (c) six months for them to be issued.

James Plaskitt: The information is not collected centrally and can be obtained only at disproportionate cost.

Non-resident Parents (Maintenance Payments)

Vera Baird: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many (a) custodial sentences have been imposed and (b) driving licences have been confiscated for the persistent non-payment of maintenance by non-resident parents in each of the last three years (i) in the United Kingdom and (ii) in the Middlesbrough courts area.

James Plaskitt: holding answer 20 December 2005
	The administration of the Child Support Agency is a matter for the Chief Executive, Mr. Stephen Geraghty. He will write to the hon. Member with the information requested.
	Letter from Stephen Geraghty, dated 19 January 2006
	In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the Child Support Agency the Secretary of State promised a substantive reply from the Chief Executive.
	You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many (a) custodial sentences have been imposed and (b) driving licences have been confiscated for the persistent non-payment of maintenance by non-resident parents in each of the last three years (i) in the United Kingdom and (ii) in the Middlesbrough courts area.
	The information you requested is set out as follows:
	
		Committal to prison and the removal of driving licences in Great Britain:
		
			  Number of cases referred to court Suspended prison sentences Committal to prison Suspended driving licence withdrawals Driving licence withdrawals 
		
		
			 200304 240 95 8 9 1 
			 200405 662 224 8 31 5 
			 200506 (April to November) 554 212 8 13 4 
		
	
	Notes to table:
	(i)The figures are given for Great Britain since the Northern Ireland Child Support Agency administers child support in Northern Ireland.
	(ii)The fact that the number of suspensions and actual penalties is less than half the number of referrals is explained by the number of debtors who enter into agreements to pay rather than attend court. Similarly, only a very small number of debtors actually go to prison or lose their driving licences because the courts normally suspend a sentence on condition that the defendant commits to pay.
	No custodial sentences have been imposed in the Middlesbrough courts area.
	One driving licence has been withdrawn in the Middlesbrough courts area. This was in June 2005.
	I hope this information is helpful.

Pensioners (Castle Point)

Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of the number of pensioners in Castle Point who do not claim their full entitlement of benefits and allowances.

Stephen Timms: The information requested is not available.
	Latest estimates of the number of pensioners who are entitled to but not receiving the minimum income guarantee, housing benefit and council tax benefit are available on a national basis only. They can be found in the DWP report entitled Income Related Benefits Estimates of Take-Up in 2002/2003. Copies of the publication are available in the Library.
	These estimates are published annually in the DWP report Income Related Benefits Estimates of Take-up. The next set of statistics, due to be released on 31 January 2006, will contain figures for the first six months of pension credit.
	Currently it is not possible to estimate take-up rates for disability living allowance and attendance allowance. The Department is commissioning research to establish whether it is possible to estimate take-up rates for these benefits. Results will be available in 2007.
	Information on the number of pensioners entitled to but not receiving other DWP administered benefits is not available.

Pensions

Nigel Dodds: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will estimate expenditure on state pensions with the winter fuel allowance and pension credit being abolished, state second pension being retained and the basic state pension being raised to the level of the guaranteed credit and increased in line with earnings thereafter for (a) 2006, (b) 2010, (c) 2020, (d) 2030, (e) 2040 and (f) 2050 as a percentage of gross domestic product.

Stephen Timms: The information is in the table:
	
		
			  Total expenditure (percentage) 
		
		
			 2006 5.4 
			 2010 5.8 
			 2020 6.3 
			 2030 7.7 
			 2040 8.6 
			 2050 9.3 
		
	
	Notes:
	1.The figures include spending on basic state pensions, additional pensions, over 75s TV licence and Christmas bonuses.
	2.Expenditure on basic state pension, additional pension and other pensioner benefits are based on PBR 2005 long-term projections for future GB benefit expenditure.
	3.The additional gross cost of raising the BSP to the GC level from 200607 has been provided by the Government Actuary's Department (GAD). These figures are for GB only.
	4.All figures are rounded to the nearest 0.1 percent.
	5.There would also be a reduction in spending on other means tested benefits such as housing and council tax benefit and increase in tax revenues if the basic state pension was linked to guarantee credit level and then uprated by earnings.
	6.Under this hypothetical policy change there would be losers. People who had less than full BSP or received pension credit with a disabled or carers premium may lose under this system.

Pensions

Nigel Dodds: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will estimate expenditure on state pensions with the winter fuel and pension credit being abolished, state second pension being abolished and the basic state pension being raised to the level of the guaranteed credit and increased in line with earnings thereafter for (a) 2006, (b) 2010, (c) 2020, (d) 2030, (e) 2040 and (f) 2050 as a percentage of gross domestic product.

Stephen Timms: The information is in the table:
	
		
			  Total expenditure (percentage) 
		
		
			 2006 5.4 
			 2010 5.8 
			 2020 6.2 
			 2030 7.3 
			 2040 7.8 
			 2050 7.9 
		
	
	Notes:
	1.The figures include spending on basic state pensions, additional pensions, over 75s TV license and Christmas bonuses.
	2.Expenditure on basic state pension, additional pension and other pensioner benefits are based on PBR 2005 long-term projections for future GB benefit expenditure.
	3.The figures for additional pension are based on the assumption that all SEPRS and S2P accruals up to 5 of April 2006 would still be paid.
	4.The figures for the gross costs of raising the basic state pension to the guarantee credit level from 20067 and the costs of paying the existing SERPS and S2P accruals are provided by the Government Actuary's Department, they are based on PBR forecasts and are for GB only.
	5.There would also be a reduction in spending on other means tested benefits such as housing and council tax benefit and increase in tax revenues if the basic state pension was linked to guarantee credit level and then uprated by earnings.
	6.Under this hypothetical policy change there would still be losers. People who had less than full BSP or received pension credit with a disabled or carers premium may lose under this system.
	7.The figures are rounded to the nearest 0.1 percent.
	Abolishing S2P would mean that the contracted out rebate would no longer need to be paid. This would save:
	
		
			  Percentage 
		
		
			 2006 0.9 
			 2010 0.7 
			 2020 0.6 
			 2030 0.5 
			 2040 0.4 
			 2050 0.4 
		
	
	Note:
	The figures are rounded to the nearest 0.1 percent.

Pensions

Iain Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what steps his Department is taking to help contracted and sub-contracted workers achieve appropriate pensions.

Stephen Timms: The Government have taken a number of steps to help all people save for their retirement, including contracted and sub-contracted workers who do not have access to a suitable company pension scheme. For employees, the introduction of the state second pension in April 2002 is helping around 18.7 million people to build up entitlement to a second tier pension: this includes around 5.8 million low earners, and around 8.8 million moderate earners.
	We also introduced stakeholder pensions in April 2001 as an additional pension option. These are flexible and portable with a limit on annual management charges, and they allow for minimum contributions of as little as 20 at a time. As stakeholder pensions are also open to non-earners, policy holders can continue to contribute to their pension plan in any periods of non-employment. These features may be of particular benefit to contracted and sub-contracted workers, who may have interrupted work patterns.
	The Government's informed choice programme is also helping people, including contracted and sub-contracted workers, improve their pension provision by raising overall levels of financial education and awareness of the need to plan and provide for retirement. We aim to ensure people have tailored, accurate and timely information, and to improve levels of financial literacy and capability. Overall we are trying to achieve a behavioural and cultural change so that all people actively plan for their retirement.

Pensions

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what assessment his Department is undertaking of the merits of the Pensions Commission's recommendation of a national pension savings scheme run by an independent not-for-profit body.

Stephen Timms: The Government have welcomed the Pensions Commission's second report, and welcomed its proposals and options as the right basis for building the concensus we need.
	The Government are in the process of examining the recommendations made by the Commission in detail. This includes recommendations on a National Pension Savings Scheme. We are consulting with the public and stakeholders on these key issues, as part of the National Pension Debate; in order to develop these ideas and test them against the criteria that we believe will deliver a lasting settlement.
	At this stage of the debate no decisions have been taken on this specific recommendation, and we are ruling nothing in and nothing out.

Telephone Helplines

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many telephone calls to the Child Support Agency (a) were received, (b) received an engaged tone and (c) were disconnected during the interactive voice response process for the period April 2002 to September 2005 for (i) all calls and (ii) calls relating to the cases being progressed on the new computer system; and if he will make a statement.

James Plaskitt: The administration of the Child Support Agency is a matter for the Chief Executive. He will write to the hon. Member with the information requested.
	Letter from Stephen Geraghty, dated 19 January 2006
	In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the Child Support Agency the Secretary of State promised a substantive reply from the Chief Executive.
	You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions; how many telephone calls to the Child Support Agency were (a) received (b) engaged and (c) disconnected during the interactive voice response process for the period April 2002 to September 2005 for (i) all calls and (ii) calls relating to the cases being progressed on the new computer system; and if he will make a statement.
	The information requested is contained in the attached table.
	As you will see, since experiencing the major, well-documented problems associated with the introduction of the new Child Support Scheme in March 2003, the Agency has shown significant improvements in telephony performance.
	In particular, for those calls for which management information is available as to the eventual outcome of the call:
	In the period April-September 2005, 82 per cent. of total calls received were answered, up from 58 per cent. in 200304.
	In the period April-September 2005, only 3 per cent. of total calls received were ineffective (which means they received an engaged tone, or failed due to other system problems) down from 14 per cent. in 200304.
	Calls abandoned can be split into two types, those abandoned while in queues waiting for staff to answer them and those calls abandoned in the automated touch tone/Interactive Voice Response (IVR) part of the process before they have joined a queue to be answered by staff (for example if the client does not have a National Insurance number to hand and hangs up to go and find it before calling back).
	Calls abandoned in the automated touch-tone/IVR part of the process have remained relatively stable at around 6 per cent. of total calls received over the last 3 years.
	Calls abandoned once in a queue has fallen from 22 per cent. of total calls received in 200304 to 10 per cent. in the period April-September 2005.
	89 per cent. of calls which entered a queue after passing through the IVR/touchtone part of the process were successfully answered between April and September 2005, up from 73 per cent. in 200304.
	I hope you find this information helpful.
	
		Number of calls received by the CSA and the outcomes of those calls April 2002 September 2005
		
			 Numbers of calls (Thousand) April 2002-March 2003 April 2003-March 2004 April 2004-March 2005 April-September 2005 
		
		
			 New System (CS2 old and new schemes) 
			 Attempted customer calls to CS2 numbers n/a 1,693 2,922 1,595 
			 calls for which outcome not recorded n/a 125 48 27 
			 calls for which outcome recorded n/a 1,568 2,874 1,569 
			 calls that received an engaged / busy tone n/a 39 36 19 
			 other ineffective calls n/a 29 94 39 
			 calls abandoned / lost during the IVR process n/a 362 320 135 
			 calls that were answered from the queue (post IVR) n/a 891 2,018 1,223 
			 calls abandoned in queue (post IVR) n/a 246 406 153 
			 % of accounted for calls answered n/a 57 70 78 
			 % of calls that were answered from the queue n/a 78 83 89 
			 Old system (CSCSold scheme)  
			 Attempted customer calls to CSCS numbers 4,145 4,358 2,815 1,109 
			 calls for which outcome not recorded 45 20 0 0 
			 calls for which outcome recorded 4,100 4,338 2,815 1,109 
			 calls that received an engaged / busy tone See note 1 459 90 3 
			 other ineffective calls See note 1 326 115 32 
			 calls abandoned / lost during the IVR process n/a n/a n/a n/a 
			 calls that were answered from the queue (post IVR) 3,121 2,525 2,222 965 
			 calls abandoned in queue (post IVR) 528 1,028 389 109 
			 % of accounted for calls answered 76 58 79 87 
			 % of calls that were answered from the queue 86 71 85 90 
			 Total CSA (both schemes and systems)  
			 Attempted customer calls to both CSCS and CS2 numbers 4,145 6,051 5,738 2,705 
			 calls for which outcome not recorded 45 145 48 27 
			 calls for which outcome recorded 4,100 5,906 5,689 2,678 
			 calls that received an engaged / busy tone See note 1 498 126 21 
			 other ineffective calls See note 1 355 210 72 
			 calls abandoned / lost during the IVR process n/a 362 320 135 
			 calls that were answered from the queue (post IVR) 3,121 3,417 4,240 2,189 
			 calls abandoned in queue (post IVR) 528 1,274 794 261 
			 % of accounted for calls answered 76 58 75 82 
			 % of calls that were answered from the queue 86 73 84 89 
		
	
	Notes:
	1.Total calls received exclude calls outside working hours.
	2.It is not possible to break down ineffective calls into those that did or did not receive an engaged tone for old system calls in 200203.
	3.Other ineffective calls are those that result in a ring tone but no reply, fail due to network technical problems, or are answered by a BT message but do not connect to the CSA system.
	4.The figures exclude new system (CS2) calls received between April 2003 and June 2003 (of which there were 225,000) as the Agency does not hold disaggregated management information as to the outcome of these calls.
	5.'Calls for which outcome not recorded', are those which were received but for which, due to problems with the Ml system, the eventual outcome was not recorded. Some of these calls would have been answered, and others would have been abandoned. The volume of such calls has decreased significantly in the last 3 years as management information systems have improved.
	6.'Calls for which outcome recorded' are those which were received and for which there is management information to track the eventual outcome.
	7.IVR denotes the automated touch tone part of the process where customers enter their details via the telephone key pad. Once callers have cleared this part of the process, they enter a queue to be answered by a member of CSA staff. There is no IVR process on the old system.
	8.Numbers are rounded to the nearest thousand, and percentages to the nearest per cent. Components may not sum to totals due to rounding.

Winter Fuel Payments

Philip Hollobone: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many pensioners in Kettering constituency were entitled to winter fuel payment in each year since its introduction.

Stephen Timms: Information relating to winter fuel payments for the winters of 199798 and 199899 is not available. The information for Kettering constituency from winter 19992000 is in the following table. These figures are also available in the Library.
	
		
			 Kettering constituency Payments made 
		
		
			 19992000 17,360 
			 200001 19,395 
			 200102 19,745 
			 200203 19,965 
			 200304 20,425 
			 200405 20,510 
		
	
	Notes:
	1.Figures are rounded to the nearest five.
	2.Local authorities and parliamentary constituencies are assigned by matching postcodes against the relevant ONS postcode directory.
	Source:
	Information Directorate, 100 per cent. sample

Winter Fuel Payments

Jeff Ennis: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many people received winter fuel payments in (a) Barnsley and (b) Doncaster in 200405.

Stephen Timms: In winter 200405 there were 44,700 people in the Barnsley local authority area and 58,575 people in the Doncaster local authority area who received a winter fuel payment.
	Notes:
	1.Figures are rounded to the nearest five. 2.Local authorities are assigned by matching postcodes against the relevant ONS postcode directory.
	Source:
	Information Directorate, 100 per cent. sample.

Winter Fuel Payments

Norman Lamb: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions 
	(1)  what factors he took into account when deciding that pensioners who reached pensionable age after 25 September 2005 should not be eligible to claim winter fuel payments for the winter of 200506;
	(2)  what the annual cost implications are of restricting eligibility for the winter fuel payments to those pensioners who reach pensionable age before 25 September of the year in which the allowance becomes payable.

Stephen Timms: To be eligible for a winter fuel payment people must have reached age 60 by the end of the qualifying week, which for this winter was the 25 September 2005. This is to ensure that the majority of payments are made before Christmas.
	If the qualifying week in Great Britain had been 31 December for this winter's payment, around an additional 160,000 people in Great Britain would have become eligible to receive a payment around March 2006 at a cost of approximately 23 million.

Winter Fuel Payments

Hywel Williams: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what arrangements are in place to suspend the payment of the winter fuel payment when a claimant enters residential care.

Stephen Timms: Anyone who satisfies the conditions for receiving a winter fuel payment for any day in the relevant week is entitled to receive a payment. Decisions about entitlement are based on information in the Department's record. Customers are entitled to question decisions if the information on which they are based is incorrect.

HOME DEPARTMENT

Central Witness Bureau

Lynne Featherstone: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what progress has been made on the creation of a central witness bureau; and if he will make a statement.

Fiona Mactaggart: This project is progressing well and we expect to be able to make an announcement before the beginning of the next financial year.

Child Pornography

Nick Gibb: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many people (a) received a police caution for and (b) were convicted of possession of indecent photographs of children in each year since 1995.

Paul Goggins: The information from the court proceedings database held by the Office for Criminal Justice Reform is contained in the table and gives the number of offenders cautioned and found guilty of possession of indecent photographs of children in England and Wales, 1995 to 2004.
	
		Number of offenders cautioned and found guilty at all courts for offences relating to child pornography, England and Wales, 1995 to 2004(28)
		
			 Offence Description Disposal 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 
		
		
			 Take or make indecent Cautioned 18 15 14 26 31 35 38 63 239 201 
			 photographs of children(29) Found guilty 44 69 103 82 139 218 289 434 1,048 978 
			 Possession of an indecent Cautioned 11 16 17 19 34 25 32 53 205 162 
			 photograph of a child(30) Found guilty 37 79 81 105 99 77 75 97 239 184 
		
	
	(28)All data given refer to the principal offence only.
	(29)Offences under the Protection of Children Act 1978, section 1 and section 6 as amended by the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, section 84.
	(30)Offences under the Criminal Justice Act 1988, section 160 as amended by the Criminal Justice and Services Act 2000, section 41(3) (previously 181/06).

Criminal Cases Review Commission

Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many appeals to the Criminal Cases Review Commission have been received; and how many cases the Criminal Cases Review Commission has referred back to the courts.

Fiona Mactaggart: The total number of applications received by the Criminal Cases Review Commission up to 31 December 2005 is 8,343. Out of these 308 have been referred back to the courts.

Criminal Damage Act

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many (a) males and (b) females were (i) prosecuted and (ii) convicted during 2004 of an offence under section 1(1) of the Criminal Damage Act 1971.

Fiona Mactaggart: Data from the court proceedings database held by the Office for Criminal Justice Reform on the number of males and females proceeded against at the magistrates courts and found guilty at all courts for offences under section 1(1) of the Criminal Damage Act 1971, England and Wales, 2004 is given in the following table.
	
		Number of males and females proceeded against at magistrates courts and found guilty at all courts for offences under section 1(1) Criminal Damage Act 1971, England and Wales, 2004(31)
		
			   Males Females 
			 Offence description Principal statute Proceeded against Found guilty Proceeded against Found guilty 
		
		
			 Arson not endangering life Criminal Damage Act 1971 S.1(1) (named 'arson' by virtue of s.1(3)) 1,163 850 174 172 
			 Other criminal damage Explosive Substances Act S.2 (in part) and S.3 (in part); Malicious Damage Act 1861 SS.35, 36, 47 and 48; Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Area Act 1979 S.28(1); Post Office Act 1953 S.60; Criminal Damage Act 1971 S.1 (1) (an offence or offences against the Criminal Damage Act 1971, value of damage over 5,000 or one offence under the Criminal Damage Act 1971 whatever the value of damage involved, when committed at the same time as an additional offence other than Criminal Damage) 12,032 8,157 1,327 972 
			 Racially aggravated other criminal damage Criminal Damage Act 1971 S.1 (1) as amended by the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 S.30(1) and (2) 448 195 69 34 
			 Religiously aggravated other criminal damage Criminal Damage Act 1971 S. 1(1) as amended by the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 S.30(1) and (2) 14 9 3  
			 Racially or religiously aggravated other criminal damage Criminal Damage Act 1971 S. 1(1) as amended by the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 S.30(1) and (2) 74 43 13 9 
			 Causing damage to an allotment through negligence or any unlawful act. Criminal damage, value 5,000 or less Allotments Act 1922 S.1 9; Criminal Damage Act 1971 S.1(1); Magistrates Courts Act 1980 S.22 as amended by Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 S.46 38,714 28,620 4,105 2,876 
		
	
	(31)These data are provided on the principal offence basis

Criminal Law (Environmental Matters)

David Gauke: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he plans to amend the criminal law in relation to environmental matters as a consequence of the judgment of the European Court of Justice of 15 September 2003.

Fiona Mactaggart: In its judgment of 13 September 2005 the European Court of Justice annulled certain European legislation to protect the environment through criminal law because it had been adopted under the wrong treaty provisions. That annulment has no impact on the application of national laws of the United Kingdom. Moreover, the United Kingdom relied largely on existing legislation in order to comply with the instrument. The Government have no plans to amend the criminal law in relation to environmental matters as a consequence of the judgment.

Departmental Objectives

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on progress towards his Department's strategic objective 2.

Fiona Mactaggart: Strategic objective 2 (more offenders are caught, punished and stop offending, and victims are better supported) is underpinned by our public sector agreement (PSA) targets:
	No. 2 part (f)to improve victim and witness satisfaction
	No. 3to improve the delivery of justice
	And our PSA Standard to reduce reoffending.
	The latest performance against these targets and the Standard was published in the Home Office autumn performance report 2005 Cm6707 on 19 December 2005 and is available on the Home Office website.
	More information is available in the Home Office departmental report Cm6528 which was published in June 2005 and is also available on the Home Office website. The next Home Office department report will be published shortly after the end of the 200506 financial year.

DNA Database

Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will take steps to bring the number of British citizens whose DNA is kept on record down to the EU average.

Andy Burnham: There are no plans to bring the number down. The relatively large number of people on the British National DNA Database means there is a greater chance of matching DNA found at the scene of a crime to a suspect. The Database provides the public with a vital intelligence tool, providing around 3,000 intelligence matches per month. There has been a four-fold increase in the number of detections obtained through the use of DNA between 1999 and 2005.

Drug Addicts (Treatment)

Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the scheme of giving drug addicts who commit non-violent offences treatment in the community rather than short prison terms; and whether there are plans to expand the scheme to include those who commit non-violent offences under the influence of alcohol.

Fiona Mactaggart: The Drug Interventions Programme (DIP) aims to make the most of opportunities provided by the criminal justice system to direct drug misusing offenders out of crime and into treatment and break the destructive cycle of drugs, offending and prison.
	Key elements of the Programme are delivered in all areas of England while the intensive elements of the Programme are currently operational in 97 areas with high levels of acquisitive crime. This includes testing individuals for Class A drugs who are charged with a trigger offence. Testing on Arrest is currently operational in three areas of England and will commence in all other DIP intensive areas in England on 31 March 2006. The results of the tests are also used to inform court decisions on bail and sentencing. It is a matter for the courts to determine the most appropriate sentence according to the offence committed.
	From October 2000 until the introduction of the community order of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 in April 2005, drug treatment was delivered as a requirement of a community sentence through the Drug Treatment and Testing Order (DTTO). The DTTO is gradually being replaced by the Drug Rehabilitation Requirement (DRR) of the community order for offenders aged 18 or over.
	There are no plans to extend DIP to include those who commit offences under the influence of alcohol. An Alcohol Treatment Requirement (ATR) is available to courts as a non-custodial sentencing option for offences linked to alcohol use.

Drugs Act

Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what estimate he has made of the change in the numbers of people who will be (a) arrested, (b) brought to court and (c) imprisoned in the next three years as a result of the Drugs Act 2005.

Paul Goggins: The regulatory impact assessment drawn up in connection with the implementation of the Drugs Act 2005 focussed on the additional number of convictions and offenders imprisoned on an annual basis. The figures were 2,294 and 287 respectively. No estimate was put on numbers of arrests and prosecutions.

Drugs Rehabilitation Programme

Peter Viggers: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what response the Government have made to requests for funding for the detoxification and rehabilitation programme operated by RADAR in conjunction with Coldturkey UK.

Caroline Flint: holding answer 16 January 2006
	Ihave been asked to reply.
	We have no record of having received any formal bid to central Government for the funding of any drug services operated by The Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation (RADAR).
	However, the Department's currently funds RADAR through the section 64 general scheme as follows:
	
		
			   
		
		
			 200304 86,400 
			 200405 95,000 
			 200506 95,000 
		
	
	This core funding is for RADAR's central administrative costs, and covers their objectives to work towards change enabling disabled people to control their own lives, by promoting regulation, good practice and equality of opportunity, advocating the removal of physical and attitudinal barriers: informing disabled people, disability organisations and others on matters affecting disabled people, and supporting disability organisations.

Golden Jubilee Medal

Madeleine Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will extend HM the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal awarded to prison officers or armed forces personnel who had five years of service by February 2002 to officers working in private prisons.

Fiona Mactaggart: Prison Custody Officers (PCO) currently working in contracted sector prisons who had completed five years of service in the public sector Prison Service by February 2002 and who fall within the set eligibility criteria are eligible for the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal. There are no plans to extend the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal to any other staff employed within the contracted prison sector.

Highways Act

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many (a) males and (b) females were (i) prosecuted and (ii) convicted during 2004 of an offence under section 132(1) of the Highways Act 1980.

Fiona Mactaggart: Persons proceeded against and found guilty at the magistrates courts of offences under section 132(1) of the Highways Act 1980 cannot be separately identified on the court proceedings database held by the Office for Criminal Justice Reform as they form part of a miscellaneous group which cannot be analysed.

Home Detention Curfew Scheme

David Davis: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many offences have been committed by those released on home detention curfew, broken down by offence.

Fiona Mactaggart: As at 31 October 2005 over 119,000 offenders had been released on to the home detention curfew scheme since it was introduced in January 1999. As of 31 October 2005, the Home Office had been notified of 4,095 offenders (or 3.4 per cent. of the total) who had been convicted, cautioned or were awaiting prosecution for 7,437 further offences committed or allegedly committed while they were subject to the scheme. The following table breaks down this figure by further offences.
	
		Breakdown of all further offences
		
			 28 January 1999 to 31 October 2005 Total 
		
		
			 Total 7,437 
			 Violence against the person 833 
			 Sexual offences 18 
			 Burglary 337 
			 Robbery 100 
			 Theft and handling 1,780 
			 Fraud and forgery 252 
			 Drug offences 589 
			 Motoring offences 1,733 
			 Other 1,794

Independent Monitoring Boards

Henry Bellingham: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what the size is of the independent monitoring board for each (a) prison and (b) Immigration Removal Centre establishment; what the membership is of each board; and if he will make a statement.

Fiona Mactaggart: The complement of each prison and immigration removal centre Independent Monitoring Board is shown the following table together with the number of members in each Board as on 3 October 2005.
	
		
			 Board Complement (maximum Board size(32)) Number of members (as on 3 October 2005) 
		
		
			 Prisons   
			 Acklington 19 15 
			 Albany 10 7 
			 Altcourse 20 12 
			 Ashfield 13 10 
			 Ashwell 12 5 
			 Askham Grange 10 10 
			 Aylesbury 14 11 
			 Bedford 12 (32)13 
			 Belmarsh 20 18 
			 Birmingham 20 (32)21 
			 Blakenhurst 20 14 
			 Blantyre House 10 (32)12 
			 Blundeston 12 10 
			 Brinsford 16 9 
			 Bristol 15 13 
			 Brixton 20 16 
			 Brockhill 10 10 
			 Bronzefield 17 16 
			 Buckley Hall 14 10 
			 Bullingdon 20 15 
			 Bullwood Hall 10 (32)13 
			 Camp Hill 12 10 
			 Canterbury 10 10 
			 Cardiff 17 11 
			 Castington 13 11 
			 Channings Wood 14 12 
			 Chelmsford 19 17 
			 Coldingley 10 10 
			 Cookham Wood 10 9 
			 Dartmoor 16 12 
			 Deerbolt 17 12 
			 Doncaster 20 7 
			 Dorchester 10 9 
			 Dovegate 20 16 
			 Downview 14 13 
			 Drake Hall 12 11 
			 Durham 20 15 
			 East Sutton Park 10 11 
			 Eastwood Park 13 10 
			 Edmunds Hill 14 7 
			 Elmley 20 10 
			 Erlestoke 10 l3 
			 Everthorpe 13 9 
			 Exeter 17 12 
			 Featherstone 15 11 
			 Feltham 20 14 
			 Ford 14 11 
			 Forest Bank 20 15 
			 Foston Hall 10 10 
			 Frankland 18 17 
			 Full Sutton 18 14 
			 Garth 17 12 
			 Gartree 15 15 
			 Glen Parva 20 18 
			 Gloucester 11 11 
			 Grendon/Springhill 15 12 
			 Guys Marsh 19 14 
			 Haverigg 12 (32)13 
			 Hewell Grange 10 9 
			 High Down 19 12 
			 Highpoint 20 17 
			 Hindley 18 14 
			 Hollesley Bay 10 8 
			 Holloway 20 15 
			 Holme House 20 14 
			 Hull 20 17 
			 Huntercombe 15 13 
			 Kingston 10 9 
			 Kirkham 11 (32)13 
			 Kirklevington 10 9 
			 Lancaster Castle 10 10 
			 Lancaster Farms 17 13 
			 Latchmere House 10 (32)12 
			 Leeds 20 16 
			 Leicester 10 (32)13 
			 Lewes 17 14 
			 Leyhill 10 12 
			 Lincoln 12 (32)16 
			 Lindholme 20 14 
			 Littlehey 13 (32)14 
			 Liverpool 20 15 
			 Long Lartin 17 15 
			 Low Newton 15 8 
			 Lowdham Grange 13 13 
			 Maidstone 12 (32)13 
			 Manchester 20 19 
			 Moorland 20 14 
			 Morton Hall 15 10 
			 New Hall 16 8 
			 North Sea Camp 10 (32)11 
			 Northallerton 10 9 
			 Norwich 20 20 
			 Nottingham 13 (32)17 
			 Onley 19 14 
			 Parc 20 16 
			 Parkhurst 13 12 
			 Pentonville 20 (32)22 
			 Peterborough 20 15 
			 Portland 17 17 
			 Preston 16 17 
			 Ranby 20 16 
			 Reading 10 8 
			 Risley 20 17 
			 Rochester 13 11 
			 Rye Hill 17 12 
			 Send 10 (32)11 
			 Shepton Mallet 10 9 
			 Shrewsbury 10 (32)14 
			 Stafford 14 12 
			 Standford Hill 10 8 
			 Stocken 15 (32)18 
			 Stoke Heath 20 12 
			 Styal 17 16 
			 Sudbury 10 10 
			 Swaleside 19 6 
			 Swansea 16 13 
			 Swinfen Hall 14 9 
			 The Mount 16 (32)17 
			 The Verne 12 14 
			 Thorn Cross 12 12 
			 Usk 15 11 
			 Wakefield 19 12 
			 Wandsworth 20 19 
			 Warren Hill 10 9 
			 Wayland 15 14 
			 Wealstun 18 16 
			 Wellingborough 11 (32)12 
			 Werrington 10 8 
			 Wetherby 14 14 
			 Whatton 16 10 
			 Whitemoor 16 15 
			 Winchester 20 14 
			 Wolds 10 (32)12 
			 Woodhill 20 16 
			 Wormwood Scrubs 24 18 
			 Wymott 16 11 
			
			 Immigration Removal Centres 
			 Campsfield House 13 13 
			 Colnbrook 12 9 
			 Dover 12 7 
			 Harmondsworth 15 10 
			 Haslar 10 8 
			 Oakington 12 8 
			 Tinsley House 12 8 
			 Yarl's Wood 12 9 
		
	
	(32)New board complements were issued, as a guide to Boards, in spring 2005. Minimum and maximum board sizes were set at 10 and 20 Board members respectively and recommended complements are being achieved though natural wastage.

Independent Monitoring Boards

Henry Bellingham: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many applications were submitted to join the Independent Monitoring Board for each prison and immigration removal centre establishment in each of the last five years; what proportion were successful; and if he will make a statement.

Fiona Mactaggart: The information is provided in the following tables.
	
		Applications and appointments made to IMBs in prisons in the last five years
		
			 Period Number of applications Number of appointments Percentage of appointed 
		
		
			 Year ending 3 October: 
			 200001 261 116 44.4 
			 200102 189 79 41.8 
			 200203 388 260 67 
			 200304 336 275 81.8 
			 200405 233 191 82 
			 
			 Last five years 1,407 921 65.5 
		
	
	
		Applications and appointments made to immigration removal centres in prisons in the last five years
		
			 Period Number of applications Number of appointments Percentage of appointed 
		
		
			 Year ending 3 October: 
			 200001 6 3 50 
			 200102(33) 8 9 112.5 
			 200203 7 7 100 
			 200304 20 20 100 
			 200405 14 10 71.4 
			 
			 Last five years 55 49 89.1 
		
	
	(33)Included a transfer.

Parenting Contracts

David Davis: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many parenting contracts have been signed in each of the past two years.

Fiona Mactaggart: The Youth Justice Board has collected data on the number of parenting contracts entered into by youth offending teams since one April 2004. 555 parenting contracts were made between 1 April 2004 and 31 March 2005 and 218 between 1 April 2004 and 30 September 2005 (the latest period for which data is available).
	The Department for Education and Skills has collected data regarding parenting contracts in cases of non-attendance and exclusion from school since September 2004. 5,717 parenting contracts were recorded for truancy and 410 for exclusion between September 2004 and 31 July 2005 (the latest period for which data is available).

Parenting Contracts

David Davis: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many parenting contracts have been breached in each of the past two years.

Fiona Mactaggart: Data is not collected on the number of parenting contracts that are breached.

Parenting Contracts

David Davis: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many breached parenting contracts have led to parenting orders in each of the past two years.

Fiona Mactaggart: Data is not collected on the number of parenting contracts which are not complied with and lead to a parenting order.

Parenting Orders

David Davis: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many parenting orders have been made without the child or young person appearing in court for offending in each of the past two years.

Fiona Mactaggart: Section 26 of the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003 allows youth offending teams to apply for parenting orders in respect of children and young people who have engaged in antisocial behaviour or criminal conduct. Parenting orders under section 26 can be made without the child or young person appearing in court.
	This power came into force on 27 February 2004. The Youth Justice Board has collected data on its use since 1 April 2004. 80 parenting orders under section 26 were made during April 2004 to March 2005 and 71 were made during April 2005 to September 2005 (which is the latest available data).

Prison Escapes

Lynne Featherstone: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many escapes from (a) prisons and (b) young offenders institutions there have been in each year since 1995, broken down by the relevant categories set out in the Departmental Annual Report; and if he will make a statement.

Fiona Mactaggart: The number of escapes from prisons and Prison Service escorts for each category of establishment is shown in the following table.
	
		Escapes from prisons in England and Wales April 1995 to December 2005
		
			  Adult Young offender Juvenile Total 
			  Prison Prison service escort Prison Prison service escort Prison Prison service escort Prison Prison service escort 
		
		
			 199596 41 33 4 3 7 0 52 36 
			 199697 30 19 3 1 0 0 33 20 
			 199798 19 10 0 0 4 0 23 10 
			 199899 16 7 7 0 5 0 28 7 
			 19992000 23 7 6 1 1 0 30 8 
			 200001 8 8 3 0 0 0 11 8 
			 200102 14 10 1 1 0 0 15 11 
			 200203 5 12 0 0 0 0 5 12 
			 200304 6 6 4 0 0 0 10 6 
			 200405 11 7 0 0 1 1 12 8 
			 200506(34) 1 7 0 0 0 0 1 7 
		
	
	(34)To December.

Prisons

John Bercow: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what help is offered by his Department to prisoners to cease smoking.

Fiona Mactaggart: People in prison are being helped to stop smoking through services specially targeted to meet their needs, including nicotine replacement therapy. In 200102 the Department of Health ran a pilot project on smoking cessation in prison. It publication, Acquitted, is a reference guide for those starting up new stop smoking services in the prison setting and outlines key learning points from the project. It is targeted at both NHS smoking services and prisons. An evaluation is under way to report on the Department of Health's 1.5 million investment, between 2003 and 2006, for smoking cessation services in prisons.

Prisons

Madeleine Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking to reduce the number of vulnerable people in prison.

Fiona Mactaggart: As regards adult offenders, the Criminal Justice Act 2003 provides that a custodial sentence may only be imposed on adult offenders when the offence is so serious that no other sentence can be justified. A wide range of non-custodial sentences is available to deal with offenders. While sentencing in individual cases is entirely a matter for the courts, the Government believes that prison should be reserved for dangerous, violent and seriously persistent offenders.
	The 2003 Act also provides that before passing a custodial sentence on an offender who is or appears to be mentally disordered, the court must consider any information before it relating to his mental condition, and the likely effect of a custodial sentence on that condition. Section 166 of the Act specifically allows the court to mitigate sentences for mentally disordered offenders, and to impose non-custodial sentences where normally a custodial sentence would be justified.
	Hospital orders rather than custodial orders can be issued at the sentencing stage, and where mental health issues come to light only while in custody, the offender can be removed from prison and transferred to a secure hospital.
	The Sentencing Guidelines Council (which issues sentencing guidelines to which criminal courts in England and Wales must have regard) has issued a guideline confirming that mental illness is generally a mitigating factor in sentencing.
	The 'Development Programme for Extending Offender Health Support', a joint initiative between the Home Office and Department of Health, has recently been introduced to help the courts identify, assess and make appropriate recommendations for the care and management of offenders with health and social care needs. The programme's underpinning goal is to ensure that prison is not a default destination for vulnerable individuals whose care and management needs could more appropriately be met elsewhere.
	Juvenile offenders are dealt with under a separate sentencing structure that provides for their special vulnerability.

Prisons

Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department why recent services at the mosque in Broadmoor Prison have been cancelled.

Jane Kennedy: I have been asked to reply.
	I am informed by North West London strategic health authority that services at the mosque in Broadmoor hospital have not been cancelled. Just before Eid celebrations, the weekly prayer session at the mosque was postponed due to the unavailability of the visiting Imam.
	I understand at Broadmoor hospital, prayer sessions are conducted at the mosque by a visiting Imam every Friday. I have been assured that Broadmoor hospital has no intention or desire to reduce access to the mosque.

Prisons

Greg Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has for the (a) expansion of and (b) creation of new prison facilities at HMP Full Sutton, near York; and if he will make a statement.

Fiona Mactaggart: There are no plans, at present, to either expand Her Majesty's Prison Full Sutton or to build a new prison on the site adjacent to the existing prison.
	Development of this site remains an option for providing additional prison capacity if necessary.

Prisons

Philip Hollobone: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many prosecutions there have been for supplying illegal drugs in prisons in each year since 1997.

Paul Goggins: Decisions to prosecute are taken by the Crown Prosecution Service and the number of prosecutions undertaken is not collated by the Prison Service. The number of visitors arrested on suspicion of supplying drugs into prison and the number of prisoners found guilty at adjudication of offences involving drug smuggling through visits is given in the table.
	
		
			  Number of visitors arrested on suspicion Number of prisoners found guilty of smuggling drugs through visits at adjudication 
		
		
			 200405 439 1,065 
			 200304 448 884 
			 200203 404 988 
			 200102 526 1,123 
			 200001 499 1,169 
			 19992000 728 1,086

Probation Officers

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will list the complaints made by (a) members of the public, (b) hon. Members and (c) members of the House of Lords in each of the last 10years for which figures are available; and what the outcome of each complaint was about the conduct of probation officers.

Fiona Mactaggart: The Department does not collect the information in the form requested. A National Complaints Procedure, agreed by the Secretary of State, enables local probation areas to handle complaints. Complaints must be from offenders or their nominated representatives. Unresolved local complaints are escalated to the independent Prison and Probation ombudsman. The following table details the number of complaints received by the Prison and Probation ombudsman since 1 September 2001, the date on which the NPS complaints procedure, and the ombudsman's responsibility for investigating complaints about the probation service were implemented.
	
		Complaints made by offenders or their representatives about the Probation Service, received by the Prison and Probation ombudsman since 1 September 2001
		
			  Number received Number eligible 
		
		
			 September 2001 to March 2002 83 5 
			 April 2002 to March 2003 191 31 
			 April 2003 to March 2004 279 28 
			 April 2004 to March 2005 307 41 
		
	
	The number eligible column shows the number of complaints out of all those received that have been eligible for the ombudsman to investigate. The ombudsman's terms of reference (and the NPS complaint procedure) require that all three stages of the complaint procedure must have been completed before the ombudsman may investigate a complaint. The three stages are: informal investigation by the local office, formal investigation by the Chief Officer or a senior officer nominated by the CO, and finally the appeal stage when a panel of three Board members hears the appeal. The ombudsman may accept complaints that are referred to him within one month of the complainant receiving the result of the appeal.

Security Guards

Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will extend the 20 March deadline for the licensing of security guards.

Paul Goggins: From 20 March 2006 it will be an offence to work as a manned guard (security guard, CCTV operative, Cash and Valuables in Transit, Close Protection) without a licence from the Security Industry Authority. Keyholders will also need to be licensed from that date. This date will not be extended beyond 20 March.

Serious Organised Crime and Police Act

Robert Wilson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what guidance his Department has issued to the police on the implementation of the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 in the vicinity of Parliament since the recent arrest and conviction of Maya Anne Evans.

Paul Goggins: No guidance has been issued on the provisions of the Serious Organised Crime Act dealing with Parliament Square. Home Office officials have worked closely with the Metropolitan police on the implementation of this legislation. We do not consider that written guidance to the Commissioner is necessary. However, we keep the need for guidance under review, in the light of operational experience.

Torture

John Bercow: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many convictions will be affected by the Law Lords ruling that evidence extracted under torture is inadmissible in judicial proceedings.

Fiona Mactaggart: We have no reason to believe that any convictions will be affected by this ruling. In criminal proceedings in England and Wales, the courts have a range of powers to prevent the admission of evidence that may have been obtained improperly or illegally, including through means of torture. Courts have the discretion to exclude evidence if it is unduly prejudicial or unfair, and a judicial discretion to stay proceedings if they are considered to be an abuse of the court's process. Defendants also enjoy the protections afforded by Article six of the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR), the right to a fair trial. Article three of the ECHR also prohibits torture and inhuman or degrading treatment.
	In addition, a confession is not admissible unless it meets the requirements set out in sections 76 and 78 of Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE). That is, the evidence will not be admissible if it is unreliable or has been obtained by oppression. Section 76(8) of PACE states that oppression includes torture, inhuman and degrading treatment and the use or threat of violence

Young Offenders

David Davis: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what the recidivism rate among young offenders was in each of the last eight years.

Fiona Mactaggart: Reconviction rates for young offenders following a pre-court disposal, a non-custodial sentence at court or discharge from custody have been published as part of the Home Office's monitoring of its PSA (Public Service Agreement) target on reducing reoffending. The most recent data were published in Juvenile reconviction: results from the 2003 cohort. The report shows one year reconviction rates for juvenile offenders (those aged 10 to 17) for 1997 and 2000 to 2003.
	Some statistics on reconviction rates for young offenders released from prison or starting a community sentence have been published in Prison Statistics: England and Wales and Probation Statistics, England and Wales but these are on a different basis from the PSA results. These publications are available in the House of Commons Library.
	Reconviction rates should be used with caution as a number of different factors can influence them. Reconviction rates can be adjusted to take account of the changing characteristics of offenders and these adjusted rates are published on the Home Office's website. The most recent data show that there has been a reduction in re-offending for young offenders of 2.4 per cent. against the 2000 baseline. The Home Office Public Service Agreement target is to reduce re-offending by 5 per cent. by 2006.

Youth Resettlement Action Plan

David Davis: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when his Department expects to publish the Youth Resettlement Action Plan.

Fiona Mactaggart: A National Youth Resettlement Framework for Action is in the final stages of development by the Youth Justice Board for England and Wales. The framework should be ready for publication by the end of February. I will ensure the hon. Member receives a printed copy and will arrange for copies to be placed in the House Libraries.

NORTHERN IRELAND

Benefit Fraud

Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many people in Northern Ireland were prosecuted for illegally obtaining benefits in each year since 1999.

David Hanson: The total number of people who have been prosecuted for illegally obtaining benefits in each year since 1999 is:
	
		
			  Prosecuted 
		
		
			 200001 245 
			 200102 471 
			 200203 335 
			 200304 243 
			 200405 236 
			 20052006(35) 161 
		
	
	(35)To 17 January 2006.

CCTV

Peter Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many police-monitored CCTV cameras are in operation in (a) East Belfast District Command Unit, (b) South Belfast and (c) North Belfast.

Shaun Woodward: The following table provides the number of PSNI monitored CCTV cameras in East, South and North Belfast District Command Units:
	
		
			  District command unit Number of CCTV cameras monitored by PSNI 
		
		
			 South Belfast 29 
			 North Belfast 36 
			 East Belfast 11

Hospital Staff (Working Hours)

Nigel Dodds: To ask the Secretary of State for NorthernIreland what progress has been made in the implementation of the European Working Time Directive in relation to the working hours of (a) consultants, (b) junior house doctors and (c) nursing staff in hospitals in Northern Ireland.

Shaun Woodward: The latest information on junior doctors indicates that 71 per cent. of junior doctors are compliant with the European Working Time Directive. Information on consultants and nursing staff is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

Housing Benefit

John Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how much was spent on housing benefit in Northern Ireland in respect of tenants in (a) Housing Executive property, (b) Housing Association property and (c) the Private Sector in 2005.

David Hanson: 195 million was spent on housing benefit in Northern Ireland in respect of tenants in Housing Executive properties and 176.5 million in respect of Housing Association and Private Sector properties in the financial year 200405. Information with regard to this latter figure cannot be disaggregated further.

Independent Monitoring Commission

Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when the Government expects the publication of the next report by the Independent Monitoring Commission.

Shaun Woodward: The next report of the Independent Monitoring Commission is expected at the end of January and will be published as soon as possible thereafter.

Joseph Rafferty

Iris Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what representations he has made to the Prime Minister of the Irish Republic about the murder of Joseph Rafferty on 12 April.

Shaun Woodward: There have been no representations made by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland with the Prime Minister of the Irish Republic about the murder of Joseph Rafferty on 12 April.

Loyalist Paramilitary Disarmament

Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will call for loyalist paramilitary disarmament in Northern Ireland.

Shaun Woodward: The Government's position is clear; there is no place for paramilitary and criminal activity in a democratically governed Northern Ireland. As with the IRA, we remain committed to seeing complete and verified decommissioning of weapons held by all loyalist groups.

Male Prisoners (Nationality)

Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what percentage of (a) female and (b) male prisoners in Northern Ireland are of foreign nationality; and what the nationalities concerned are in each case.

Shaun Woodward: As of 12 January 2006 the Northern Ireland Prison Service had: (a) 3.6 per cent. (1) of the total female population of 28 were foreign national prisoners and (b) 2.4 per cent. (31) of a total male prisoner population of 1,279 were foreign nationals. A breakdown by nationality is provided in the table.
	
		
			 Nationality Number of female prisoners Number of male prisoners 
		
		
			 Algerian  1 
			 Belgian  1 
			 Chinese  4 
			 East Timorese  1 
			 French  1 
			 German  1 
			 Italian  2 
			 Latvian  2 
			 Liberian  1 
			 Lithuanian  10 
			 Polish  5 
			 South African 1 1 
			 Spanish  1 
			 Total 1 31 
			 Percentage of total populations as at 12 January 2006  (28 and 1,279) 3.6% 2.4% 
		
	
	Note:
	These figures exclude immigration detainees as these persons are not prisoners under the terms of the Prison Service Act 1953.

Motoring Offences

William McCrea: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many (a) women and (b) men were convicted of motoring offences in Northern Ireland in each of the last five years.

Shaun Woodward: The following table provides statistics, by gender, of persons convicted of motoring offences during the period 1999 to 2003 (2003 is the most up-to-date data currently available).
	
		Persons convicted of motoring offences, by gender: 19992003
		
			  Convictions 
			  Male Female Total 
		
		
			 1999 13,869 1,913 15,782 
			 2000 13,344 2,046 15,390 
			 2001 12,403 2,063 14,466 
			 2002 12,330 2,014 14,344 
			 2003 14,049 2,293 16,342

Motoring Offences

Sammy Wilson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many people were stopped by police for suspected motoring offences in each of Northern Ireland's parliamentary constituencies in each of the last 24 months; and how many were subsequently prosecuted in each month.

Shaun Woodward: The Police Service of Northern Ireland do not record statistics of the number of motorists stopped for motoring offences. The closest available information is detailed in the tables 1 to 4 and relates to road policing detections by District Officers and Road Policing Officers recorded by District Command Unit (DCU).
	Statistics relating to convictions are also only available by District Command Unit. Tables 5 and 6 provide details of the number of prosecutions for motoring offences during the period 200203 (2003 being the most recent year for which statistics are available).
	The tables have been placed in the Library.

Motoring Offences

Sammy Wilson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many people were breathalysed in each of Northern Ireland's parliamentary constituencies in each of the last 24 months; and how many were subsequently prosecuted in each month.

Shaun Woodward: The Police Service of Northern Ireland do not record statistics relating to the number of people breathalysed by parliamentary constituency but by District Command Unit. Tables detailing the number of preliminary breath tests conducted in each DCU by District Officers and Roads Policing Officers during the period 200405 have been placed in the Library.
	Prosecution data relating to drink driving offences is also only available by District Command Unit. The statistics provided in tables 5 and 6 covers the period 200203 (2003 being the most recent year for which this data is available).

Paramilitary Arms

Philip Hollobone: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what recent assessment he has made of the quantity of paramilitary arms at large in Northern Ireland.

Shaun Woodward: The decommissioning of paramilitary weapons is a vital element in the process of taking violence out of Northern Ireland permanently.
	On 26 September 2005, the IICD determined that the IRA had met its commitment to put all its arms beyond use in a manner called for by the legislation and that it remained for them to address the arms of all loyalist paramilitary groups, as well as other paramilitary organisations. The IICD has confirmed that it has an inventory of decommissioned IRA weapons. The IICD will, however, retain possession of this inventory until its mandate is complete and will, along with the Government, continue to work tirelessly in the pursuit of complete decommissioning by all paramilitary organisations both republican and loyalist.

Police Numbers

David Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what the average number of police officers on out-of-station duty each day was in each district command unit in the Province in each of the last five years.

Shaun Woodward: The PSNI Human Resource Department do not hold data in relation to the average number of police officers out-of-station duty on each day in each DCU for the last five years.
	However, since the inception of the Human Resource Planning Strategy under the objective of Improving Organisational Performance through efficient and effective deployment practices, the PSNI has committed to increasing the percentage of officer time spent on front line policing to 72 per cent. by 200708.
	The Front Line Policing Measure for the PSNI currently stands at 56.6 per cent. for 200405 and they are currently on target to achieve the 200506 target of 60 per cent.. This figure cannot be fully calculated until the completion of activity sampling towards the end of the financial year.

Police Service of Northern Ireland

Peter Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many regular Police Service of Northern Ireland (a) full-time reserve and (b) part-time reserve officers are on (i) long-term sick leave and (ii) short-term sick leave within Castlereagh.

Shaun Woodward: As of the 19 October 2005, Castlereagh DCU recorded the following sick absence details for regular, full-time reserve and part-time reserve officers:
	9 regular officers on long-term sick absence (over 28 days)
	28 regular officers on short-term sickness absence (under 28 days)
	2 full-time reserve on long-term sickness absence (over 28 days)
	1 full-time reserve on short-term sickness absence (under 28 days)
	No part-time reserve constable recorded as sick.

Police Service of Northern Ireland

Sammy Wilson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland 
	(1)  what ballistic and armouring tests are carried out on (a) patrol cars, (b) armoured land rovers and (c) VIP cars in the Police Service of Northern Ireland fleet; and to what standard such testing is conducted;
	(2)  what (a) standards and (b) procedures are used by the Police Service of Northern Ireland in relation to the procurement and use of ballistic steel for armouring purposes;
	(3)  in what posts (a) Mr. David Graham, (b) Mr. John Wilson, (c) Mr. Nigel Booth, (d) Mr. Gerry Murray and (e) Mr. Dave Bradley have served with (i)the Police Authority of Northern Ireland and (ii) the Police Service of Northern Ireland; what the duration of their service was in each case; what experience each has in (A) ballistic engineering and (B) vehicle armoury; and what professional qualifications each has.

Shaun Woodward: These questions deal with issues that are currently subject to an ongoing criminal investigation and no further information can be made available at this stage.

Police Service of Northern Ireland

Sammy Wilson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what guidelines apply to the suspension of Police Service of Northern Ireland officers and staff pending the formal investigation of irregularities; and in what circumstances staff are suspended.

Shaun Woodward: There are two distinct sets of guidelines which cover police officers and police staff. These are as follows:
	1.Police Staff are covered by NICS code paragraph 1084, which states:
	An individual may at any time be suspended from duty if, in the opinion of the person exercising disciplinary powers, that course is a necessary precaution in the public interest pending the outcome of criminal or disciplinary investigations or proceedings, and no alternative course eg transfer to other duties is appropriate. Suspension in these circumstances, as distinct from suspension as a disciplinary penalty (see paragraph 1093d), does not imply any decisions about the case, and this important distinction should be kept in mind whenever any record or report of the period of absence is necessary. Pay in respect of any period of suspension may be withheld wholly or in part so long as such suspension continues, if the person exercising disciplinary powers so decides. In such circumstances individuals may be told that they may be eligible to claim for National Insurance benefits such as unemployment or sickness or supplementary benefits. Where it is decided that pay, in the whole or in part, should continue, for the purposes of calculating the amount to be paid the person on suspension should be treated in the same way as staff treated during the first six months of sickness absence. This would entail, among other things, paying shift disturbance (SDA) for the first 30 days but not paying notional overtime. Any decision to withhold pay will be subject to early and regular review; among the factors taken into account will be the circumstances of the alleged offence and the person's dependents. If disciplinary proceedings result in a penalty any withheld pay in respect of the suspension will be forfeited wholly or in part if the person exercising disciplinary powers so determines after consideration of all the circumstances of the case. Any withheld pay which it is decided will not be forfeited will be paid. Someone cleared of all charges, will receive a net sum making up any shortfall in net pay that would have been received during the period of suspension. Where it is concluded that someone should be paid during the period of suspension including retrospective payment, the period, the period should reckon under the Principal Civil Service Pension Scheme in the normal way. The procedures set out in this paragraph do not affect the practice whereby a line manager may send someone home if the circumstances seem to require this: unless this is for a very brief period, however, consideration should be given by the person exercising disciplinary powers to the need for formal suspension.
	2. Police Officers
	The PSNI has introduced a very robust, human rights compliant suspension policy which was crafted following a long and detailed consultation process with counsel, human rights etc. The policy takes into account 20 substantive considerations when deciding whether or not an officer should be suspended from duty (Code Section 9 App. 9 as attached). In practice the investigating officer, the District Commander, the Supervising Member and the Head of Internal Investigation Branch forward recommendations to the Deputy Chief Constable regarding the issue of suspension. These recommendations are based on the substantive considerations. The Deputy Chief Constable is the person responsible for deciding whether or not an officer should be suspended from duty. The circumstances of the suspension is reviewed on a monthly basis by the Head of Internal Investigation Branch and the Supervising Member.
	Appendix 9(9)Suspension: Substantive Considerations (See RUC Code Section 9, paragraph 25)
	Matters to be consideredListed below are various factors which may be taken into account in considering whether to suspend a member from duty. These factors provide general guidance and are not exhaustive of the considerations which may be examined and weighed in any given case. Further, the weight, if any, to be accorded by the decision-maker to the factors which they consider will be a matter for them.
	1.Whether continued duty by the member concerned would be conducive to the promotion and maintenance of high standards of discipline within the police service.
	2.The nature and seriousness of the alleged misconduct and any apparent aggravating or mitigating factors.
	3.Relevant medical reports on the member concerned.
	4.The member's personal and family circumstances, including the impact which suspension from duty is likely to have on them.
	5.The past performance and disciplinary record, if any, of the member concerned.
	6.Consideration of the wishes and interests of the victim of the member's alleged offences, including any reparation they may have obtained in some other form of proceedings.
	7.The strength of the case against the member concerned, including the member's defence to, or explanation of, the matters under investigation, (where known).
	8.The range of penalties available, or likely to be available, in the event that the member s conduct was determined not to have met the appropriate standard.
	9.The likelihood of getting a member to a discipline hearing, especially where medical considerations might militate against a discipline hearing. (See N1O Guidance paragraphs 3.67 and 3.68 and Annex T.
	10.Recommendations from the member detecting the offence/investigating officer, divisional commander(s) and 'G' Department. [Code Section 9, paragraph 25(2)].
	11.The member's apparent role in the matter under investigation. Were they, for example, under the influence of a higher rank? Were they a victim of circumstances? Have they been adequately dealt with by the criminal courts? Was the member concerned in a supervisory position, which brings with it the necessity to provide an example to more junior members? etc.
	12.The message required to be sent to the police service or wider community. Relevant considerations may include recent events which have impacted upon, or shaped the expectations of the public regarding the professionalism, probity and conduct of police officers.
	13.Cognisance to be paid to the Chief Constable's policy on the circumstances surrounding the discipline incident, egdiscrimination, harassment, equal opportunities policy, drink driving.
	14.Any possible or actual legal proceedingssuch as a civil action or employment tribunal proceedings.
	15.The need to remove the member from an area, in order to protect witnesses, evidence or the integrity of the investigation.
	16.In criminal cases, whether a prosecution has been initiated against the member concerned or the prospects of a direction to prosecute issuing.
	17.The member's continued credibility to perform police duties, ie give evidence in court, interview suspects or witnesses, or deal with other police matters of a sensitive or delicate nature.
	18.Whether temporary transfer of the member concerned from their normal duties during the formal investigation or pending the outcome of misconduct proceedings, is appropriate and proportionate.
	19.The public interest generally.
	20.The overall interests of the police service.

Police Service of Northern Ireland

Sammy Wilson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the Police Service of Northern Ireland's arrangements for (a) tendering, (b) ordering, (c) delivery, (d) invoicing and (e) payment for goods and services in relation to vehicle transactions; and if he will make a statement.

Shaun Woodward: A Project Board, chaired by a non-executive director, comprising members of the Police Service of Northern Ireland's Audit and Risk Committee and the Policing Board's Audit and Best Value Committee has been established to oversee a review of policies, procedures and responsibilities for (a) tendering, (b) ordering, (c) delivering, (d) invoicing and (e) payment for goods and services.

Police Service of Northern Ireland

Sammy Wilson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland 
	(1)  what assessment he has made of the level of (a) technical qualifications and (b) expertise in relation to ballistic and armouring protection matters of (i) managers and (ii) staff in the Police Service of Northern Ireland Transport Services Department;
	(2)  who took the decision to contest the civil proceedings brought by Northern Ireland Sheet Metal Works Ltd. in respect of steel contracts; what criteria were used to decide that the case should proceed; and who gave authority to settle the case;
	(3)  if he will list (a) corporate entertaining and (b) receipt of gifts declared by (i) Mr. David Graham and (ii) Mr. Joe Stewart of the Police Service of Northern Ireland in each of the last five years;
	(4)  on whose authority Mr. David Graham declined to give evidence at the recent court proceedings involving Northern Ireland Sheet Metal Works Ltd. and the Police Service of Northern Ireland regarding contracts to supply steel; and for what reasons the decision was taken.

Shaun Woodward: These are management issues for the Chief Constable and the Northern Ireland Policing Board. The Chief Constable will write to the hon. Member. A copy of the letter will be placed in the Library.

Schools (Employment of Offenders)

David Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps are in place to regulate the employment in a job working with children in Northern Ireland of (a) people with a conviction for a sexual offence and (b) people with a caution for a sexual offence; and if he will make a statement.

Shaun Woodward: With effect from 1 April 2005, the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults (NI) Order 2003 (POCVA) introduced a statutory requirement for childcare organisations to carry out a vetting check on prospective employees wishing to work with children in Northern Ireland. Vetting checks provide details of an individual's criminal record which includes all cautions, convictions and bind overs and whether the individual has been included on the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety Disqualification from Working with Children List or the Department of Education's List 99. PSNI can also share non-conviction information where they consider it appropriate to do so applying the pressing needs test. Decisions are made on a case-by-case basis but records are likely to be disclosed where it is clear that this is necessary to protect children.
	POCVA also introduced disqualification orders, which may be issued by a court when an individual is convicted and sentenced to at least 12 months imprisonment for any offence listed in POCVA. These offences include sexual and violent offences against children. It is an offence for anyone who is subject to a disqualification order or whose name appears on any of the lists created under POCVA, to seek employment in a regulated position. It is also an offence for anyone to knowingly offer work in a regulated position to such a person, or fail to remove such a person from such work.
	Further protection is provided through regulation of professionals e.g. doctors, nurses and social workers by their respective regulatory body.
	The final decision to employ, or not to employ an individual rests with the prospective employer.

Sexual Violence

Iris Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, when he will publish the consultation paper on sexual violence.

Shaun Woodward: The development of a regional strategy to address sexual violence in Northern Ireland is being taken forward jointly by the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety and the Northern Ireland Office, in conjunction with other Departments and agencies whose responsibilities also have a bearing on matters relating to sexual violence. It is proposed to publish a consultation document by this summer and to publish the final strategy in April 2007.

Speed Cameras

Sammy Wilson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many times mobile speed cameras were used in each of Northern Ireland's parliamentary constituencies in each of the last 24 months.

Shaun Woodward: The Police Service of Northern Ireland do not record statistics relating to mobile speed cameras by parliamentary constituency, but by district command unit. The closest available information is detailed in tables 1 and 2 and shows the number of occasions mobile safety cameras were deployed to DCU's over the period 200405.
	
		Table 1: Roads policing unit monthly deployments per DCU2004
		
			 District command unit January February March April May June 
		
		
			 Rural region   
			 Armagh 0 1 2 0 0 0 
			 Ballymena 1 8 0 6 12 3 
			 Ballymoney 1 0 0 2 5 1 
			 Banbridge 15 10 12 5 8 6 
			 Coleraine 1 0 0 0 1 8 
			 Cookstown 1 0 0 0 1 1 
			 Craigavon 5 3 3 0 0 0 
			 Down 2 0 2 6 7 9 
			 Dungannon and South Tyrone 3 0 1 1 1 1 
			 Fermanagh 4 1 0 1 2 0 
			 Foyle 5 1 2 0 0 10 
			 Limavady 5 1 0 0 0 10 
			 Magherafelt 1 2 2 0 1 10 
			 Moyle 0 4 0 0 0 0 
			 Newry and Mourne 8 7 5 13 6 9 
			 Omagh 0 1 0 0 11 6 
			
			 Urban region(36)   
			 Belfast South26 30 28 
			 Belfast East31 32 29 
			 Belfast West16 28 24 
			 Belfast North19 21 21 
			 Castlereagh29 30 25 
			 North Down27 15 15 
			 Carrickfergus8 7 6 
			 Newtownabbey11 10 10 
			 Lisburn5 4 2 
			 Ards11 13 12 
			 Antrim4 5 5 
		
	
	
		
			 District command unit July August September October November December 
		
		
			 Rural region   
			 Armagh 3 0 1 2 0 0 
			 Ballymena 7 4 5 5 9 5 
			 Ballymoney 1 0 2 3 3 0 
			 Banbridge 7 11 3 6 7 9 
			 Coleraine 7 6 4 11 3 0 
			 Cookstown 0 0 0 0 0 0 
			 Craigavon 0 0 0 0 0 0 
			 Down 9 8 8 14 6 4 
			 Dungannon and South Tyrone 1 0 1 1 1 0 
			 Fermanagh 1 1 2 2 0 0 
			 Foyle 5 9 7 6 7 5 
			 Limavady 6 9 5 6 5 2 
			 Magherafelt 6 9 5 6 5 2 
			 Moyle 0 0 2 1 1 0 
			 Newry and Mourne 7 8 6 13 10 11 
			 Omagh 7 6 4 7 7 5 
			
			 Urban region(36)   
			 Belfast South 36 21 23 35 36 26 
			 Belfast East 26 24 20 23 23 15 
			 Belfast West 24 8 12 16 12 8 
			 Belfast North 20 35 24 27 26 19 
			 Castlereagh 32 30 33 37 37 26 
			 North Down 18 4 21 23 25 17 
			 Carrickfergus 7 7 8 9 8 6 
			 Newtownabbey 11 12 12 14 14 8 
			 Lisburn 0 3 3 2 0 0 
			 Ards 10 11 14 15 10 13 
			 Antrim 3 5 3 3 5 2 
		
	
	(36)Urban region did not commence recording this type of data until April 2004.
	
		Table 2: Roads policing unit monthly deployments per DCU2005
		
			 District command unit January February March April May June 
		
		
			 Rural region   
			 Armagh 0 0 0 1 1 0 
			 Ballymena 5 0 6 2 5 4 
			 Ballymoney 4 0 5 2 4 3 
			 Banbridge 6 11 11 13 13 12 
			 Coleraine 2 8 3 2 3 5 
			 Cookstown 1 1 2 1 1 1 
			 Craigavon 0 0 0 0 1 0 
			 Down 4 1 3 7 9 7 
			 Dungannon and South Tyrone 1 1 1 1 1 3 
			 Fermanagh 2 1 1 3 1 1 
			 Foyle 6 5 5 0 3 7 
			 Limavady 6 4 2 0 4 7 
			 Magherafelt 3 5 5 1 4 7 
			 Moyle 2 0 1 0 0 0 
			 Newry and Mourne 11 7 6 7 10 6 
			 Omagh 9 7 3 5 6 3 
			
			 Urban region   
			 Belfast South 24 24 29 36 28 29 
			 Belfast East 19 20 23 23 33 23 
			 Belfast West 20 24 20 20 8 35 
			 Belfast North 21 21 28 26 25 26 
			 Castlereagh 39 39 50 35 25 37 
			 North Down 20 19 26 23 26 24 
			 Carrickfergus 8 6 9 9 10 11 
			 Newtownabbey 12 10 10 13 12 15 
			 Lisburn 0 0 0 0 0 7 
			 Ards 14 15 14 14 17 15 
			 Antrim 3 2 2 3 4 4 
		
	
	
		
			 District command unit July August September October November December 
		
		
			 Rural region   
			 Armagh 0 0 1 0 1 0 
			 Ballymena 2 3 0 5 1 2 
			 Ballymoney 0 3 1 4 2 3 
			 Banbridge 8 7 14 10 10 7 
			 Coleraine 3 3 4 5 3 2 
			 Cookstown 0 1 1 1 1 0 
			 Craigavon 0 0 0 0 0 0 
			 Down 3 4 5 1 0 0 
			 Dungannon and South Tyrone 1 0 1 2 5 1 
			 Fermanagh 1 6 2 2 5 1 
			 Foyle 8 9 8 7 5 4 
			 Limavady 5 8 11 6 3 2 
			 Magherafelt 3 4 3 5 2 2 
			 Moyle 0 1 0 1 0 1 
			 Newry and Mourne 4 2 9 6 3 3 
			 Omagh 7 3 5 10 10 5 
			
			 Urban region   
			 Belfast South 25 28 26 25 27 24 
			 Belfast East 21 21 21 20 21 20 
			 Belfast West 45 50 45 45 40 30 
			 Belfast North 16 24 26 24 25 24 
			 Castlereagh 34 46 35 40 46 30 
			 North Down 28 23 27 22 28 24 
			 Carrickfergus 9 7 9 7 8 7 
			 Newtownabbey 8 10 11 9 9 9 
			 Lisburn 9 10 9 9 8 6 
			 Ards 14 11 17 12 14 11 
			 Antrim 2 3 4 2 2 3 
		
	
	Note:
	Larne and Strabane do not currently have any identified camera locations for mobile safety cameras.

Speed Cameras

Peter Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many people were (a) killed and (b) seriously injured in the three years prior to the establishment of camera sites in (i) East Belfast and (ii)Castlereagh District Command Unit; and how many have been (A) killed and (B) seriously injured in each year since their establishment.

Shaun Woodward: The fixed safety camera sites at the Upper Newtownards Road (East Belfast DCU) and at the Saintfield Road (Castlereagh DCU) were introduced on 1 July 2003. The number of people (i) killed and (ii)seriously injured at each site for three years prior to their establishment and for each year since are provided in the following tables:.
	
		1. East Belfast DCU Fixed Camera: Upper Newtownards Road
		
			  Killed Seriously injured 
		
		
			 Before   
			 1 July 2000 to 30 June 2001 0 3 
			 1 July 2001 to 30 June 2002 0 3 
			 1 July 2002 to 30 June 2003 0 1 
			
			 After   
			 1 July 2003 to 30 June 2004 0 2 
			 1 July 2004 to 30 June 2005 0 1 
		
	
	
		2. Castlereagh DCU Fixed Camera: Saintfield Road
		
			  Killed Seriously injured 
		
		
			 Before   
			 1 July 2000 to 30 June 2001 0 1 
			 1 July 2001 to 30 June 2002 0 3 
			 1 July 2002 to 30 June 2003 0 1 
			
			 After   
			 1 July 2003 to 30 June 2004 0 1 
			 1 July 2004 to 30 June 2005 0 0

EDUCATION AND SKILLS

Agency Regulation

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what plans she has to reform the regulation of all agencies that supply (a) teachers and (b) non-teaching staff for schools and colleges.

Ruth Kelly: We plan to introduce a new mandatory Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check for all newly appointed school employees. This will in effect require agencies to carry out such checks in order to meet the requirements of the employer. We will also consider the case for taking further steps, including introducing a formal requirement on all supply agencies to have a CRB disclosure for all staff who work in schools, FE institutions and local authority education services.

Child Care

Paul Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what targets she has set for increasing the number of people working in child care; and what progress has been made towards meeting these targets.

Beverley Hughes: There are no set targets for increasing the number of people working in child care, but work force growth is needed to support the continuing expansion of the child care sector. Recruiting and retaining sufficient numbers of good quality staff to support this expansion is essential and we are helping child care employers to do so. Our 2002/03 Childcare and Early Years Workforce Survey shows that the child care work force overall has grown from 238,500 in 1998 to 279,100 in 2002/03, an increase of 17 per cent.

Child Protection

Edward Davey: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what criteria Ministers have been using to assess teachers' appeals against appearing on List 99; who drew up the criteria; and when they were last revised.

Ruth Kelly: My statement, and the accompanying report, of earlier today set out clearly the Government's analysis of, and response to, issues concerning child protection and List 99, together with the action we are currently taking.

Child Protection

Tim Loughton: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many individuals who have worked with children through employment by an agency have been (a) on List 99 and (b) on the sex offenders' register since the establishment of each.

Ruth Kelly: My statement and accompanying report explain the work underway to establish how many people on the list of registered sex offenders are currently employed in schools in England and Wales. We are carrying out work with local Multi Agency Protection Panels, which include the police.

Child Protection

Tim Loughton: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills whether her Department imposes a legal obligation on agencies employing those who work with children to carry out a check on an applicant's previous history of sexual offences before (a) allowing them to join the agency and (b) offering them work.

David Willetts: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills 
	(1)  how many people on List 99 have limited permission to work (a) with some types of children and (b) in certain types of school;
	(2)  if she will publish the guidelines used by the Children's Safeguard Unit in advising her on cases in which she has discretion in relation to List 99.

Judy Mallaber: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if she will ensure that, as part of her review on safeguarding children, measures are taken to ensure that nobody will be allowed to be a teacher who (a) has been convicted of and (b) has accepted a caution for downloading child pornography, and has been placed on the Sex Offenders Register.

Ruth Kelly: My statement, and the accompanying report, of earlier today set out clearly the Government's analysis of, and response to, issues concerning child protection and List 99, together with the action we are currently taking.

Child Protection

Tim Loughton: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many people on the sex offenders' register have (a) been registered as a foster parent and (b) worked as a foster parent in each of the last eight years.

Ruth Kelly: Details of individual foster carers are not recorded centrally. However, in deciding whether to approve a prospective foster carer, fostering service providers are required under the Fostering Services Regulations 2002 to consider a range of information about that individual. This includes: an enhanced criminal record certificate (or, where this is not available, details of any criminal offences of which the person has been convicted, including spent convictions and cautions); particulars of any previous approval or refusal of approval to foster or adopt, or to register for childminding or day care, relating either to that individual or to any other members of the household; and details of any criminal offences in respect of which other adult members of the household have been convicted or cautioned.
	The regulations require that in cases where an individual, or any other adult member of the household, has committed a specified offenceincluding an offence against a childthat individual shall not be considered suitable to act as a foster carer, unless the provider is satisfied that the welfare of a particular child requires it and either: the individual (or a member of the household) is a relative of the child; or the individual is already acting as a foster carer for the child.
	Fostering service providers are also required under the Fostering Services Regulations 2002 to maintain a register of their foster carers, including carers' details and the terms of their approval.

Children's Centres

Paul Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many children's centres have been established in each year for which figures are available; and how many places have been available at each centre.

Beverley Hughes: Local authorities were asked to start planning the development of children's centres inFebruary 2003 and 67 centres were designated in 200304. An additional 163 centres were designated in 200405, and we expect a further 600 centres to be designated in 200506. Local authorities are still developing plans for children centre delivery for 200608, and a breakdown of numbers of centres to be opened in these years is not centrally available. However, by the end of this period we expect 2,500 to be designated.
	Children's centres are expected to reach 650,000 children under the age of five by March 2006. Local authorities should ensure that all families are aware of the services that the children's centre can provide for them. All children's centres will deliver integrated childcare and early learning as part of the core offer.
	The Government intends to develop 3,500 Sure Start children's centres by 2010. This will mean every community in England will have a children centre coordinating a range of integrated services for pre-school children and their parents.

Children's Trusts

Paul Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills 
	(1)  how many children's trusts were established in each year for which figures are available;
	(2)  how many local authorities have established children's trusts; and if she will make a statement.

Beverley Hughes: All local authorities, primary care trusts and their partners are setting up a children's trust in their local areathey are on target to meet the Government's expectation that most areas will have a children's trust by April 2006, and all by 2008. 35pathfinders and many other local areas have already established their children's trust arrangements, and some 135 local authorities say that their directors of children's services have been or are being appointed.

Criminal Records Bureau

Lynne Featherstone: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how the Government decide whether someone is eligible for the Criminal Records Bureau enhanced disclosure checks; and if she will make a statement.

Ruth Kelly: My statement, and the accompanying report, of earlier today set out clearly the Government's analysis of, and response to, issues concerning child protection and List 99, together with the action we are currently taking.

Criminal Records Bureau

Nick Gibb: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills whether it is necessary to request a criminal record check from the Criminal Records Bureau before employing a new teacher.

Ruth Kelly: My statement, and the accompanying report, of earlier today set out clearly the Government's analysis of, and response to, issues concerning child protection and List 99, together with the action we are currently taking.

Departmental Equipment

Theresa Villiers: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many (a) laptops and (b) mobile phones her Department bought in each year since 1997; and what the cost of each category of equipment was in each year.

Phil Hope: The number and cost of laptops and mobile phones purchased in each complete year since 1999/2000 is shown as follows. Figures in respect of 1997/98 and 1998/99 could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.
	
		
			  Mobile phones Laptops 
			  Quantity Cost (incl. VAT) Quantity Cost (incl. VAT) 
		
		
			 1999/2000 47 9431.73 745 1,255,243.35 
			 2000/01 487 67,647.10 624 1,063,000.76 
			 2001/02 342 34,870.48 639 1,054,995.39 
			 2002/03 439 36,989.00 360 540,455.28 
			 2003/04 401 41,908.26 721 953,492.51 
			 2004/05 361 23,872.48 482 558,598.16

Departmental IT Systems

Theresa Villiers: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how much her Department has spent on IT systems in each year since 1997; what the purpose of each system is; what the outturn against planned expenditure of each system was; and what the (a) planned and (b) actual date of completion was of each system.

Phil Hope: The information as requested is not readily available centrally within the Department for Education and Skills. To respond fully would involve an extensive internal and external information collection exercise which would exceed the recommended disproportionate cost threshold.
	However, to be helpful, I refer the hon. Member to the answers given by the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Children Young People and Families on 3 November 2005, Official Report, column 1314W; and 13 June 2005, Official Report, column 192W.

Early Support Pilot Programme

Paul Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what assessment she has made of the effectiveness of the Early Support Pilot Programme; and if she will make a statement.

Beverley Hughes: An independent evaluation of the Early Support Pilot Programme began in July 2004 and is being undertaken by the University of Manchester, in association with the University of Central Lancashire. A report on the outcomes and cost effectiveness of the programme will be available towards the end of June 2006. To date, feedback about the programme and its materials from parents and professionals working with disabled children has been extremely positive.

Employment Training Pilots

Hywel Francis: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what policy options will be considered following the Institute of Fiscal Studies evaluation of the work of employment training pilots up to 2004.

Phil Hope: The IFS report covers the first phase of the Employer Training Pilots (ETP) and has highlighted that we need to do more to attract the harder to reach employers. The subsequent phases of the pilots have shown us better how to do this, which has been one of the many real values of the pilots and their evaluation. ETP has also been the subject of an ongoing evaluation by the Institute of Employment Studies (IES). The development of the new national programme, Train to Gain, was based on the lessons learned from these evaluations. The final IES evaluation report is due in the spring, and we will consider the findings of that report alongside the IFS report.
	Skills brokers in Train to Gain will have a target of at least half the employers they engage being hard to reach, additional employers. We are making 15 million available in 200506 and 20 million in 200607 to develop the capacity of the brokerage network and implement a performance management system that focuses services on this priority and rewards achievement accordingly.
	A number of evaluations, including the IFS report, have shown that employers identify many benefits from ETP including productivity improvement, changed attitudes to learning, improved motivation and provided employers and employees with a platform for progression. Participating employers were more likely to train their low-skilled staff to the benefit of their business and say that ETP has allowed them to train more people over a shorter period of time. So we are confident that we are already involving more hard-to-reach learners.
	We expect Train to Gain to deliver over 40,000 additional level 2 qualifications in 200607; over 140,000 in 200708 and, by the time the programme reaches full capacity, 175,000 in 200809 and in each year thereafter.

Extended Schools Programme

Paul Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many (a) children and (b) adults have made use of the extended schools programme in each year for which figures are available; and how many schools have used the programme in each year.

Beverley Hughes: We do not currently hold data on the number of children and adults that have made use of extended services accessed through schools and it could only be provided at disproportionate cost. However we do have data on the number of schools offering access to extended services from a baseline survey of maintained schools published in September 2005. This survey showed that 87 per cent. of primary and 95 per cent. of secondary schools provide some form of childcare or activities outside of normal school hours; 69 per cent. of primary and 66 per cent. of secondary schools provide some form of parenting support; and 75 per cent. of primary schools and 97 per cent. of secondary schools provide wider community access to their facilities such as sports, arts and ICT facilities. This is a good baseline to build on and we will continue to monitor progress.

Higher Education

Hywel Francis: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what research she will undertake on the effects on willingness to study the 50 per cent. threshold requirement for financial support for part-time higher education students.

Bill Rammell: We have no current plans for undertaking research on this issue, but will keep the need for further research under review, as we assess the impact of the improved funding package for part-time students which will be introduced in 2006.
	For 200607 the support package available for eligible part-time English-domiciled students studying in England will include: an increase in the grant for fees of 27 per cent. to a maximum of 1,125 alongside a course grant of 250; an additional 40 million in institutional fundingprovided jointly with the Higher Education Funding Council for Englandto encourage participation from, and improve provision for, the most under-represented groups; and an increase in the Access to Learning Fund allocation available to part-time students from 3 million to 12 million. Welsh-domiciled students will, from 2006, be funded according to the decisions of the National Assembly for Wales.

Information Sharing and Assessment Index Project

Paul Burstow: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what her Department's estimate is of the cost of (a) setting up and (b) running the Information Sharing and Assessment Index Project; and how much her Department has (i) spent to date and (ii)plans to spend on consultants and other specialist staff associated with the project.

Beverley Hughes: As announced on 8 December, the estimated set-up costs are 224 million over the next three years. This includes the costs of adapting existing systems that will supply the data to the index and ensuring that data are accurate; adapting the day-to-day systems used by practitioners so they can access the index from those systems; introducing robust arrangements to ensure security, and training staff to use the index properly.
	Estimated operating costs, thereafter, will be 41 million per year. Most of this will pay for the additional staff needed to ensure the ongoing security, accuracy and audit of the index.
	Since the start of the feasibility phase of the index project in February 2004 we have spent around 5 million on consultants and other specialist staff. We expect to spend around a further 15 million on such support between now and the completion of index roll-out in 2008. Developing and implementing large IT-enabled systems is not an area where DfES can rely on employing permanent civil servants to deliver, since we cannot offer the career structure or range of projects that people with the necessary specialist skills will be seeking. There is no alternative approach which will deliver to Government at lower cost the expert people with the skills we need to deliver this project.

Keith Hudson

Nick Gibb: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills which (a) Minister and (b) official (i) advised on and (ii) signed the letter in relation to the decision on the List 99 determination in the case of Keith Hudson.

Ruth Kelly: The powers under section 142 of the Education Act 2002 whether or not to make a direction that an individual should be added to List 99 are exercised by the Secretary of State for Education and Skills. The Department for Education and Skills does not disclose the names of individual officials or Ministers, advising or exercising those power as a matter of policy.

Learning and Skills Council

Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what the budget for learners with learning needs and disabilities is in each learning and skills council in 200506; and if she will make a statement.

Bill Rammell: My Department does not allocate separate budgets to meet the needs of most learners with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. The majority of learners access mainstream programmes where their needs are met through core funding or through additional funding support where required. In the most recent year for which information is available the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) supported 579,000 learners with learning difficulties and/or disabilities at a cost of around 1.3 billion. The figures for 2005/06 are not yet available. We do make available a separate budget for specialist colleges for learners with the most severe needs. We are providing 158 million for this purpose in 200607. Support for learners with learning difficulties and/or disabilities is a key priority identified in our grant letter to the LSC and is in turn reflected in the LSC's annual statement of priorities.

List 99

David Willetts: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many people on List 99 have been given permission to teach GCSE courses only in the last 10 years.

Ruth Kelly: No one on List 99 has been given permission to teach GCSE courses specifically.

List 99

Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many (a) males and (b) females are on List 99.

Ruth Kelly: There were 449 females and 3,596 males on list 99 on 18 January 2006.

Local Education Authorities

Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what her most recent advice to local education authorities is on the employment of individuals before all (a) Criminal Records Bureau and (b) other character checks are completed; and if she will make a statement.

Ruth Kelly: Our guidance note 'Child Protection: Preventing Unsuitable People from Working with Children and Young Persons in the Education Service' gives comprehensive advice on the full range of pre-employment checks that local authorities ought to make before employing and individual. Supplementary advice relating to Criminal Records Bureau disclosures is provided in the guidance note 'Criminal Records Bureau:Managing the Demand for Disclosures'. Both documents can be found on the DfES website at http://www.teachernet.gov.uk/docbank/index.cfm?id= 2172 and http://www.teachernet.gov.uk/docbank/index.cfm?ID=3334

New Schools (Cumbria)

Tim Farron: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how much funding has been awarded to Cumbria County Council for new buildings in schools in Cumbria in each of the last three years; how much was awarded to each school in each case; and if she will make a statement.

Jacqui Smith: holding answer 16 January 2006
	Cumbria county council and its schools have been awarded the following capital allocations in the last three years: 21.2 million (200304); 23.7 million (200405); and 19 million (200506).
	The Department does not hold information on the amounts allocated for new buildings or at individual school level. We expect these decisions to be made locally by the County Council in accordance with its Assets Management Plan.

Overseas Trained Teacher Programme

Greg Hands: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many teachers are placed in each local authority under the Overseas Trained Teacher Programme.

Jacqui Smith: In 2004/05, 116 local authorities in England had 1,544 overseas trained teachers on programmes, the majority in London and the South East. A breakdown of the numbers by local authority is shown in the following table:
	
		
			 Local authority OTTs Percentage 
		
		
			 Surrey 66 4 
			 Southwark 62 4 
			 Essex 58 4 
			 Brent 51 3 
			 Kent 50 3 
			 Hertfordshire 44 3 
			 Hackney 42 3 
			 Hillingdon 42 3 
			 Baling 41 3 
			 Birmingham 38 2 
			 Newham 38 2 
			 Greenwich 33 2 
			 Lambeth 32 2 
			 Buckinghamshire 31 2 
			 Croydon 31 2 
			 Tower Hamlets 31 2 
			 Haringey 29 2 
			 Hounslow 29 2 
			 Barking and Dagenham 28 2 
			 Barnet 28 2 
			 Waltham Forest 28 2 
			 Enfield 27 2 
			 Wandsworth 27 2 
			 Slough 26 2 
			 Lewisham 24 2 
			 Redbridge 24 2 
			 Westminster 24 2 
			 Luton 23 1 
			 Bexley 21 1 
			 Medway 21 1 
			 Islington 20 1 
			 Hammersmith and Fulham 19 1 
			 Harrow 19 1 
			 Hampshire 18 1 
			 Bedfordshire 17 1 
			 Merton 17 1 
			 Havering 16 1 
			 Button 16 1 
			 Thurrock 15 1 
			 Suffolk 14 1 
			 Northamptonshire 13 1 
			 Cambridgeshire 12 1 
			 Reading 12 1 
			 Windsor and Maidenhead 12 1 
			 Bromley 11 1 
			 Lincolnshire 11 1 
			 Norfolk 11 1 
			 Doncaster 10 1 
			 West Sussex 9 1 
			 East Sussex 8 1 
			 Nottingham 8 1 
			 Richmond upon Thames 8 1 
			 Warwickshire 8 1 
			 West Berkshire 8 1 
			 Camden 7 (37) 
			 Oxfordshire 7 (37) 
			 Peterborough 7 (37) 
			 Southend-on-Sea 7 (37) 
			 Wokingham 7 (37) 
			 Bradford 6 (37) 
			 Bristol City of 6 (37) 
			 Kensington and Chelsea 6 (37) 
			 Kirklees 6 (37) 
			 Milton Keynes 6 (37) 
			 Bracknell Forest 5 (37) 
			 Kingston upon Thames 5 (37) 
			 Leeds 5 (37) 
			 Leicester 5 (37) 
			 Leicestershire 5 (37) 
			 Solihull 5 (37) 
			 Staffordshire 5 (37) 
			 Wiltshire 5 (37) 
			 Southampton 4 (37) 
			 Brighton and Hove 3 (37) 
			 Isle of Wight 3 (37) 
			 Lancashire 3 (37) 
			 Manchester 3 (37) 
			 Nottinghamshire 3 (37) 
			 Sandwell 3 (37) 
			 Somerset 3 (37) 
			 Sunderland 3 (37) 
			 Walsall 3 (37) 
			 Worcestershire 3 (37) 
			 Cornwall 2 (37) 
			 Dudley 2 (37) 
			 Durham 2 (37) 
			 North Somerset 2 (37) 
			 North Tyneside 2 (37) 
			 North Yorkshire 2 (37) 
			 Poole 2 (37) 
			 Portsmouth 2 (37) 
			 Salford 2 (37) 
			 Swindon 2 (37) 
			 Wakefield 2 (37) 
			 Bath and North East Somerset 1 (37) 
			 Bournemouth 1 (37) 
			 Cheshire 1 (37) 
			 Coventry 1 (37) 
			 Cumbria 1 (37) 
			 Darlington 1 (37) 
			 Derbyshire 1 (37) 
			 Devon 1 (37) 
			 Gloucestershire 1 (37) 
			 Halton 1 (37) 
			 Hartlepool 1 (37) 
			 Rochdale 1 (37) 
			 Sefton 1 (37) 
			 Sheffield 1 (37) 
			 South Gloucestershire 1 (37) 
			 Stockton-on-Tees 1 (37) 
			 Stoke-on-Trent 1 (37) 
			 Telford and Wrekin 1 (37) 
			 Torbay 1 (37) 
			 Trafford 1 (37) 
			 Wigan 1 (37) 
			 Wirral 1 (37) 
			 Grand total 1,544 100 
		
	
	(37)Indicates the percentage is below 1 per cent.

Overseas Trained Teacher Programme

Greg Hands: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what procedures are in place for background checks on teachers taken on under the Overseas Trained Teacher Programme.

Ruth Kelly: Overseas teachers are subject to the same vetting procedures as UK teachers. The Department provides detailed guidance on the necessary checks which must be carried out before engaging any teacher, including a supply teacher. The guidance requires that employers conduct checks to confirm that a teacher has declared their true identity, that supply teachers have the necessary qualifications and experience and that foreign nationals have permission to work in the UK.
	In the future we will require mandatory CRB checks as part of any appointment process on anyone selected for appointment who is or has been resident in the UK. However, it will not be possible to check someone who has never lived in this country because he/she will not have a criminal record here and will not be on List 99. We already advise employers to take extra care in other checks on overseas candidates and to seek information about the person's criminal history from their country of origin wherever possible. The CRB provides advice to employers about countries from which it is possible to obtain such information and how to obtain it.
	We will be reviewing the process for vetting overseas teachers.

Parent Support Advisers

Paul Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what estimate she has made of the cost of each Parent Support Adviser; and if she will make a statement.

Beverley Hughes: The Government have set aside 20m to support the piloting of Parent Support Advisers in over 600 primary and secondary schools in the most deprived areas. These advisers will offer early preventative support for children and families where there are signs that they could benefit from additional help. Parent Support Advisers will work with families to identify the most effective support for them.
	We are in the process of working up delivery proposals for Parent Support Advisers which build on good practice in early intervention with children and families and provide for a range of approaches across the pilot areas.

Pre-school Provision

Paul Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what comparative analysis of the effects of pre-school provision on educational attainment in other countries (a) has been and (b) will be undertaken by the Effective Provision of Pre-School Education Project.

Beverley Hughes: The Department's Effective Provision of Pre-School Education (EPPE) study has reported that the EPPE findings are similar to those of research studies in other countries, including the US, Canada, Norway, Germany and New Zealand. The EPPE study uses the same quality measures as in key US studies to facilitate comparisons. It will continue to follow children's development to the end of Key Stage2, looking at comparisons with international research. Additionally, in 2003, my Department's Early Years and Childcare International Evidence project reported on the relationship of early years programmes to child outcomes.
	This international body of literature shows that early education is especially important for the educational attainment of disadvantaged children, but has positive impacts for all children. Another consistent finding is that integrated early years settings, quality provision and higher staff qualifications are associated with more positive child outcomes.

Public Sector (Graduates)

John Hayes: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills in what academic disciplines the Government have identified a need for more graduates in the public sector work force; and if she will make a statement.

Bill Rammell: Almost 14 million jobs will need to be filled by 2012 across the economy of which nearly 7 million will demand graduates. Historically we have not precisely identified the balance of provision between different disciplines or the public and private sectors. However, in our response to HEFCE's advice on subjects of strategic importance (a copy of which is being placed in the Library), we indicated that demand and supply side trends in those subjects would be monitored in future.

School Intakes

Andrew Selous: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills whether she plans to enable schools to extend the age range of children they teach.

Jacqui Smith: holding answer 18 January 2006
	The Department has no immediate plans to change the existing arrangements whereby local authorities and school governing bodies may publish statutory proposals to change the age range of a school. Proposals are decided locally or by the Schools Adjudicator.
	Governing bodies may use their discretionary powers under Section 27 of the EA 2002 to provide directly, or in partnership with others, facilities or services for the benefit of pupils, their families or the wider community. This may include childcare for children aged five and under. Subject to parliamentary approval of the provisions set out in the Childcare Bill, any such provision from 2008, would be based on, and consistent with, the Early Years Foundation Stage. This will ensure that learning and development activities are age appropriate and contribute to improved outcomes for children.

Senior Medical Officer

Edward Davey: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many people have held the position of Senior Medical Officer in her Department over the past 10 years.

Ruth Kelly: One person has held the post of Senior Medical Officer in this Department over the past 10 years. In 2003 the post ceased to exist, as the activities performed by the Senior Medical Officer were contracted out.

Senior Medical Officer

Edward Davey: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what (a) qualifications and (b) experience are required of candidates for the post of her Senior Medical Officer.

Ruth Kelly: This post no longer exists. Our medical services contractor retains the services of specialist consultants in forensic psychiatry to consider cases that involve child protection issues, including those where an individual may be placed on List 99, and also advises whether assessments and reports should be commissioned by specialists with other professional qualifications and experience.

Sex Offenders

David Willetts: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what arrangements her Department has in place to ensure that registered sex offenders seeking employment in schools are considered for being placed on List 99.

Ruth Kelly: My statement, and the accompanying report of earlier today set out clearly the Government's analysis of, and response to, issues concerning child protection and List 99, together with the action we are currently taking.

Sex Offenders

Tim Loughton: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills who advises her on who should be placed on List 99; and how such people are (a) chosen and (b) trained.

Ruth Kelly: My statement, and the accompanying report, of earlier today set out clearly the Government's analysis of, and response to, issues concerning child protection and List 99, together with the action we are currently taking.

Sex Offenders

Tim Loughton: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills 
	(1)  whether being placed on the sex offenders' register is a criterion for being placed on List 99;
	(2)  what criteria she uses when deciding who should be placed on List 99.

David Willetts: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills 
	(1)  whether she has approved any person on the register of sex offenders to work at a school in her period as Secretary of State;
	(2)  how many people are on the list of registered sex offenders but not on List 99;
	(3)  how many people are on List 99; and how many of these are on the list of registered sex offenders.

Ruth Kelly: holding answer 12 January 2006
	My statement, and the accompanying report, of earlier today set out clearly the Government's analysis of, and response to, issues concerning child protection and List 99, together with the action we are currently taking.

Sex Offenders

Tim Loughton: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many people are on List 99; and how many people were on List 99 in each of the last 10 years.

Ruth Kelly: The number of people on List 99 is included in the report which accompanied my statement earlier today. The list is continuously updated and data are not collected on an annual basis. Therefore we do not have the information requested about the total number of people on List 99 in each of the last 10 years.

Sex Offenders

Tim Loughton: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what (a) criteria and (b) procedures are used when it is decided to take someone off List 99.

Ruth Kelly: My statement, and the accompanying report, of earlier today set out clearly the Government's analysis of, and response to, issues concerning child protection and List 99, together with the action we are currently taking.

Sex Offenders

David Willetts: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills whether anyone with a conviction for a sexual offence is working in a school.

Ruth Kelly: My statement, and the accompanying report, of earlier today set out clearly the Government's analysis of, and response to, issues concerning child protection and List 99, together with the action we are currently taking.

Sex Offenders

David Willetts: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills for what reasons someone on the register of sexual offenders might be allowed to work in a school.

Ruth Kelly: My statement, and the accompanying report, of earlier today set out clearly the Government's analysis of, and response to, issues concerning child protection and List 99, together with the action we are currently taking.

Sex Offenders

Nick Gibb: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what guidance her Department issues to schools on the employment of ex-offenders.

Ruth Kelly: My Department does not issue specific advice in respect of the employment of ex-offenders. The DfES Circular Child Protection: Preventing Unsuitable People From Working With Children and Young Persons in the Education Service sets out the procedures schools should follow in deciding whether to appoint staff. It emphasises that decisions must be made on after considering a range of pre-employment checks. It points out that a criminal record does not automatically make an individual unsuitable to work with children.
	The guidance advises prospective employers to consider several factors, including the nature of any offence(s); the length of time since the offence was committed; and the frequency of offending. It emphasises that sexual, violent, or drugs related offences are likely to indicate that someone is unsuitable to work with children, and that recent offences and/or a history of repeated offending are of much more concern than an isolated minor conviction many years ago.

Sex Offenders

David Willetts: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many people on the Register of Sexual Offenders are working in schools; and in what capacities.

Ruth Kelly: holding answer 16 January 2006
	My statement and accompanying report explain the work under way to establish how many people on the list of registered sex offenders are currently employed in schools, which will also establish the capacity of each individual. We are carrying out follow up work with local Multi Agency Protection Panels, which include the police.

Sex Offenders

Joan Humble: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many people on the Sex Offenders Register are employed by schools in (a) Blackpool and (b) Lancashire.

Ruth Kelly: My statement and accompanying report explain the work underway to establish how many people on the list of registered sex offenders are currently employed in schools in England and Wales. We are carrying out follow up work with local Multi Agency Protection Panels, which include the police.

Sex Offenders

Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many schools in Essex have staff who are on the Sex Offenders Register.

Ruth Kelly: My statement and accompanying report explain the work under way to establish how many people on the list of registered sex offenders are currently employed in schools. We are carrying out follow up work with local Multi Agency Protection Panels, which include the police.

Sex Offenders

Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if she will list local education authorities which have schools with staff who are on the Sex Offenders Register.

Ruth Kelly: My statement and accompanying report explain the work under way to establish how many people on the list of registered sex offenders are currently employed in schools. We are carrying out follow up work with local Multi Agency Protection Panels, which include the police.

Sex Offenders Register

Greg Mulholland: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many people employed in schools on a (a) temporary, (b) permanent and (c) contracted basis in the Leeds metropolitan area in each year since 1997 (i) are and (ii) have been on the sex offenders register.

Ruth Kelly: My statement and the accompanying report explain the work underway to establish how many people on the list of registered sex offenders are currently employed in schools in England and Wales. We are carrying out follow up work with local Multi Agency Protection Panels, which include the police.

Special Education Needs

Angela Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how much was spent on the provision of special education needs (a) in total and (b) as a percentage of total education spending in each region of England.

Maria Eagle: The information requested is contained within the following table and is for the financial year 200506:
	
		
			  Total planned expenditure on the education of children with SEN(38) () Total planned expenditure on SEN transport () Total planned educational revenue expenditure () Total planned expenditure on the education of children with SEN (excluding SEN transport)(38) as a percentage of total education spending Total planned expenditure on the education of children with SEN (including SEN transport) as a percentage of total education spending 
			 Region (a) (b) (c) [a/c] [(a+b)/c] 
		
		
			 England 4,120,353,000 499,593,000 31,157,614,000 13.2 14.8 
			 of which:  
			 North East 210,457,000 20,739,000 1,588,695,000 13.2 14.6 
			 North West and Merseyside 569,293,000 70,800,000 4,392,054,000 13.0 14.6 
			 Yorkshire and Humberside 382,531,000 42,858,000 3,173,505,000 12.1 13.4 
			 East Midlands 314,149,000 37,814,000 2,619,375,000 12.0 13.4 
			 West Midlands 475,781,000 50,417,000 3,460,564,000 13.7 15.2 
			 Eastern 393,061,000 55,799,000 3,316,037,000 11.9 13.5 
			 South East 676,225,000 96,236,000 4,680,733,000 14.4 16.5 
			 London 749,993,000 90,415,000 5,105,297,000 14.7 16.5 
			 South West 348,864,000 34,515,000 2,821,354,000 12.4 13.6 
		
	
	(38)Includes planned expenditure on the provision for pupils with statements and the provision for non-statemented pupils with SEN, support for inclusion, inter authority recoupment, fees for pupils at
	Notes:
	1.Figures are in cash terms as reported by LEAs at 13 January 2006 and rounded to the nearest thousand pounds and may not sum due to rounding. independent special schools and abroad, educational psychology service, LA functions in relation to child protection, therapies and other health related services, parent partnership, guidance and information, the monitoring of SEN provision and inclusion administration, assessment and co-ordination. Also included is the funding delegated to local authority maintained nursery, primary and secondary schools identified as notional SEN and the individual schools budget for special schools. The figures recorded against notional SEN are only indicative of the amount that might by spent by schools on SEN. Not included is any budgeted SEN transport expenditure.
	2.The data are taken from local authorities' 200506 Section 52 Budget Statements submitted to the DfES.

Staying-on Rates (Tamworth)

Brian Jenkins: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what the average staying-on rate in post-16 education was in Tamworth constituency in each of the past 10 years.

Bill Rammell: The percentage of 16-year-olds in full-time education in England at the end of 2004 was estimated to be 74.2 per cent.the highest ever rate. Percentage figures on participation in education by young people are not available for parliamentary constituencies, but are available for local authorities including Staffordshire LEA. These were published in the Statistical First Release Participation in education and training by 16 and 17-year-olds in each local area in EnglandSFR11/2005 on 31 March 2005.
	The publication is accessible on the DfES website via the link, http://www.dfes.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/SFR/s000568/index.shtml.
	The specific figures are available through the following link: http://www.dfes.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/SFR/s000568/SFR112005tables_lea.xls.

Sure Start

John Cummings: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many children are participating in the Sure Start programme in Easington constituency; and how many have done so since the programme commenced.

Beverley Hughes: One Sure Start children's centre has been designated so far in Easington constituencySure Start Peterlee, designated in September 2003. There are two Sure Start local programmes (Seaham, and Hornden and Easington Colliery) and a mini-programme operational, all of which are working towards children's centre status. Together this Sure Start provision is serving approximately 2,500 children under five and their families. Figures for the number of children actually supported by Sure Start since the programme began are not collated centrally. However there are a total of 10 children's centres planned for this constituency by March 2008. By March 2010 all children under five in the area will have access to a range of high quality integrated services.

Sure Start

Paul Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what assessment she has (a) made and (b) plans to make of the effectiveness of (i) Sure Start and (ii) Mini Sure Start; and if she will make a statement.

Beverley Hughes: There is a comprehensive national level evaluation of Sure Start local programmes in place which began in January 2001, which will run until 2008. It examines the implementation, cost-effectiveness and impact of Sure Start on children, families and communities, in the short, medium and long term. There have been 14 reports published to date.
	An evaluation of the Mini Sure Start programme was published in January 2005. Research reports related to Sure Start and early years policy can be found at www.surestart.gov.uk/research.

Subsidised School Milk

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what the evidential basis was on which the decision was taken to remove subsidised milk from schools.

Jim Knight: I have been asked to reply.
	The evaluation of the national top-up to the EU school milk subsidy scheme in England was published on 4 January. The report contained a number of recommendations which included ending the top-up and spending the 1.5 million released as a result on other programmes to promote milk consumption by young people. The Government have, however, decided that the subsidy scheme has a valuable role to play and should remain unchanged.

Teachers

Tim Farron: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many teaching posts were vacant in (a) primary and (b) secondary schools in Westmorland and Lonsdale in each year since 1997; and what the average vacancy rate for a local education authority in England was in each year.

Jacqui Smith: Information on teacher vacancies is collected at local authority level and is not available for individual parliamentary constituencies.
	The following table provides the number of full-time teacher vacancies in maintained nursery, primary, and secondary schools in Cumbria local authority and vacancy rates for Cumbria and England in each January since 1997.
	
		Full-time teacher vacancy numbers(39) and rates(40) in maintained nursery, primary and secondary schools in Cumbria and England, January 1997 to 2005
		
			  Cumbria England 
			  Nursery/primary Secondary Percentage 
			  Vacancy numbers Vacancy rates (percentage) Vacancy numbers Vacancy rates (percentage) Nursery/primary vacancy rates Secondary vacancy rates 
		
		
			 1997 0 0.0 4 0.2 0.6 0.4 
			 1998 1 0.1 1 0.1 0.8 0.6 
			 1999 0 0.0 2 0.1 0.8 0.5 
			 2000 0 0.0 0 0.0 0.8 0.7 
			 2001 4 0.2 2 0.1 1.2 1.4 
			 2002 8 0.4 8 0.4 1.0 1.3 
			 2003 3 0.2 6 0.3 0.6 1.1 
			 2004 5 0.3 2 0.1 0.5 0.9 
			 2005 1 0.1 9 0.4 0.4 0.8 
		
	
	(39)Advertised vacancies for full-time permanent appointments (or appointments of at least one terms duration). Includes vacancies being filled on a temporary basis of less than one term.
	(40)Vacancies as a percentage of teachers in post i.e. full-time regular teachers in maintained nursery, primary and secondary schools, plus full-time regular divided service, peripatetic, advisory and miscellaneous teachers.
	Source:
	DfES annual survey of teachers in service and teacher vacancies (Form 618G)

Teachers (Convictions)

Nick Gibb: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many teachers have (a) convictions, including spent convictions and (b) police cautions.

Ruth Kelly: The information is not available. There is no central record of convictions and cautions incurred by teachers.

Truanting

John Hayes: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many pupils truanted for at least one day from secondary school in each academic year since 2001/02; and if she will make a statement.

Jacqui Smith: holding answer 9 January 2006
	Figures are only available for pupils missing at least one half day through unauthorised absence. The information requested can be found as follows.
	
		Number of pupils absent for at least one half day due to 'unauthorised'(41) absence in maintained mainstream secondary schools
		
			  Number of pupils absent 
		
		
			 2001/02 566,644 
			 2002/03 631,669 
			 2003/04 696,600 
			 2004/05 774,347 
		
	
	(41)Unauthorised absence is absence without leave from a teacher or other authorised representative of the school. This includes all unexplained or unjustified absences, such as lateness, holidays during term time not authorised by the school, absence where reason is not yet established and truancy. Truancy forms only one part of the unauthorised figures.